Serendipity Junction

Is Pap Test an Accurate Method of Detecting Cervical Cancer?

2007-10-06T22:27:00.000+08:00

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.

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.

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. [Read Full Article]

Chichen Itza, the Colosseum, and Statue of Christ the Redeemer

2007-10-06T22:23:00.000+08:00

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.

Following is a brief description, from historical records and accounts, of each of the three 'new' world wonders:

Chichen Itza in Mexico:

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. [Read Full Article]

Breast-feeding is Still Best for Babies - and Moms, too!

2007-09-16T19:47:00.000+08:00

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.

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.

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. [Read Full Article]

A Health Guide to the Three Modern Methods of Saving Your Teeth from Decay

2007-09-16T19:45:00.000+08:00

Seeing 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.

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:

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. [Read Full Article]

Great Wall of China

2007-09-16T19:41:00.000+08:00

Thousands 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."

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."

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. [Read Full Article]

Taj Mahal in India

2007-09-16T19:37:00.000+08:00

Thousands 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."

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."

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?" [Read Full Article]

Petra in Jordan

2007-09-01T23:54:00.000+08:00

In 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.

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.

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." [Read Full Article]

Health Fact: Yogurt is More Healthful than Milk

2007-09-01T23:47:00.000+08:00

As 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.

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.

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. [Read Full Article]

Health Fact: Garlic Wards Off (Besides Vampires!) Many Health Threats

2007-08-28T22:22:00.000+08:00

For 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.

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.

Garlic has been shown to have numerous beneficial effects. Consider the following:

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.

2) In test tubes, garlic inhibits the growth of 'Helicobacter pylori,' the bacterium that causes most stomach ulcers.

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.

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. [Read Full Article]

Review of the Movie "The Bourne Ultimatum"

2007-08-18T13:22:00.000+08:00

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.

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! [Read Full Review]

Buying Hair Products 101

2007-08-17T18:38:00.000+08:00

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.

When buying hair products, you may consider the following:

Shampoos:

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.

Dandruff shampoos:

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.

Hair sprays:

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. [Read Full Article]

Machu Picchu in Peru

2007-08-17T18:31:00.000+08:00

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.

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.

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." [Read Full Article]

A Simple Method to Beat Coffee Addiction

2007-08-14T20:45:00.000+08:00

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.

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: [Read Full Article]

A Psychiatrist or a Psychologist: Which Professional is Better Concerning Mental Health?

2007-08-09T13:56:00.000+08:00

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. 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. [Read Full Article]

A Guide to Parent-Teacher Relationship

2007-08-09T13:51:00.000+08:00

Though parents have chosen the best school their child, much will depend on the student's teacher.

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. [Read Full Article]

Review of the Movie Live Free or Die Hard

2007-07-14T13:37:00.000+08:00

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.

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. [Read Full Review]

Radiation: Give Your Body a Break from It

2007-07-08T20:03:00.000+08:00

In 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?

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.

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.

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. [Read Full Article]

When in New York, Don't Fail to Watch the "Lion King" Broadway Stage Musicale

2007-06-30T14:34:00.000+08:00

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.

"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.

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.

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.

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. [Read Full Review]

Music Album Review: Regina Spektor's "Begin to Hope"

2007-06-30T14:31:00.000+08:00

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.

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.

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! [Read Full Review]

Gadget Review: Nokia E65

2007-06-30T14:19:00.000+08:00

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.

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.

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. [Read Full Review]

A Review of the Highlights of the 2007 "American Idol" Finals

2007-06-30T14:12:00.000+08:00

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.

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.

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).

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. [Read Full Review]

Essential Safety Measures in e-Banking

2007-06-22T19:38:00.000+08:00

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:

- Your ATM card is like cash. Treat it therefore as you would your crisp bills. Always keep it in a safe place.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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. [Read Full Article]

RAH RAH RAH is not the usual cheering chant

2007-06-11T20:34:00.000+08:00

Have you been watching games of the PBA (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 PBA 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!

For example, when you are watching a PBA game and suddenly hear the words COOL CAT, you will be surprised that these do not refer to a dispassionately calm feline. When DYNAMITE aims at its target, you need not scamper because it is not the explosive that contains nitroglycerin. FAST may be swift, but this one knows when to apply the brakes too when needed, while FEARLESS is challenged time and again inspite of its being brave. There are several names of petrol stations, but when you hear the FLYING A dashing downcourt, this certainly is not one of those. You may sometimes find FURIOUS not as intense as it should be, and the H-BOMB missing its target completely. [Read Full Article]

The Six Elements of Teaching: A Guide for Company Supervisors and Managers

2007-06-11T19:03:00.000+08:00

A great deal has been said of teaching 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.

Teaching 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.

Here are the six elements of teaching which should guide company supervisors and managers in their quest to becoming good and effective teachers to their subordinates:

Learning - "True teachers always seek to learn more, to remain current." Teaching effectively means you must know deeply and well. It requires learning itself. What does learning mean in teaching? Learning:

- means knowing and mastering a subject;
- embodies the act of learning;
- conveys the spirit and love of learning to others;
- means being open to the knowledge of others;
- provides the basis for independent thought;
- justifies learning. [Read Full Article]

Why the Mind Wanders

2007-06-11T19:01:00.000+08:00

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 Mind 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 mind-wandering from ever bothering our mental faculties again. Mind-wandering is that abstract nuisance that prevent students from keeping their focus on textbooks and lectures, drivers from keeping their minds 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 mind.

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 mind 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 mind-wandering thing and realize that I can't avoid it myself. Which brings me to this question: "Can mind-wandering be stopped?". [Read Full Article]

Urgent Reminder: May 31 is World No Tobacco Day

2007-06-10T00:56:00.000+08:00

Tobacco addiction is a global epidemic that is increasingly ravaging countries and regions that can least afford its toll of disability, disease, lost productivity, and death. The tobacco industry continues to put profits before life, its own expansion before the health of future generations, its own economic gain ahead of the sustainable development of struggling countries.

The purpose of World No Tobacco Day is to encourage countries and governments to work towards strict regulation of tobacco products. We will do this by raising awareness about the existence of the wide variety of deadly tobacco products. Regulation should also help people get accurate information, remove the disguise and unveil the truth behind tobacco products.

The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that about one third of the global adult population, or 1.1 billion people, are smokers. [Read Full Article]

Text Messaging: Still the Preferred Mobile Service of Consumers in Asia

2007-06-10T00:52:00.000+08:00

Mobile phones are the electronic accessory of the '90s, and show no signs of relinquishing their status in the new millennium. Mobile phones are most helpful in emergencies - if your car breaks down or if you need medical attention. But many people use them simply to keep in touch with the office or the babysitter, or to make social plans.

In the meantime, mobile phone operators in most countries in Asia have been rushing to be the first to introduce new services to the market. Consumers, however, do not seem to be snapping these up at the same pace, still favoring the most basic service there is - text messaging.

According to a GSM Association (GSMA) report, consumers in Asia still prefer text messaging over any other mobile service, followed by mobile e-mail and multimedia messaging service (MMS). Overall, mobile subscribers from Asia, North America, and Europe feel the same way. [Read Full Article]

Guidelines on Investing in a Mutual Fund

2007-06-10T00:44:00.000+08:00

In the new millennium, mutual funds have grown at a pace which will make the industry a stronger one to deal with in the near future. The industry has helped in maintaining investor confidence despite the prolonged crisis, say, in Asia. It has minimized capital flight and has brought new perspectives in terms of the investment and savings maturity, even in third-world countries. Given the need for these countries to compete in the global market, mutual funds will certainly serve as a vital ingredient for their current and future development.

What is a mutual fund? How does one invest in it? When you invest in a mutual fund, your money is combined with the money of many other investors. Professional fund managers use this pool of money to create a portfolio of investments, which may include:

- Stocks: ownership of shares in publicly held companies;
- Bonds: interest-bearing certificates issued by governments and corporations; and
- Money Market Securities: short-term instruments, such as Treasury bills and certificates of deposit, that mature in less than one year. [Read Full Article]

Serendipity at the Salad Bar

2007-06-10T00:41:00.000+08:00

Whenever I take a trip to a salad bar, you can be sure that I have pre-conditioned my mind into minding what the composition of my salad plate will be. After all, anybody who takes such a jaunt to a salad bar is presumed to be opting for a light alternative to a hefty meal, one that will complement her/his weight-control regimen and will not be too taxing to the digestive mechanism. So as I take my last few steps toward where the edible greens and bits and pieces are, I make one final pact with myself that I will keep my salad healthful by making it simple. Only the basics such as greens, vegetables, fruits, beans, small pieces of lean meat and a moderate amount of light dressing shall make up my wholesome plate.

A trip to a salad bar in Austin one fine Saturday noon was not supposed to be any different. As I was patrolling its perimeters, I was hunting for the different varieties of greens that supply some fiber and are low in calories. I was particularly looking for the dark-green ones like arugula and spinach which are known to provide more beta-carotene, vitamin C and other nutrients than the paler varieties. [Read Full Article]

Understanding the Dozen Discomforts and Complications of Pregnancy

2007-06-10T00:38:00.000+08:00

There is a degree of uncertainty in the mind of a woman, during early pregnancy, as to whether conception has occurred. In fact, she may not know until her enlarging abdomen makes the situation obvious. There are three common clues of early pregnancy: 1) the missing of a regular menstrual period, 2) "morning sickness", and 3) tenderness and beginning enlargement of the breasts.

The reason for some doubt about whether a woman is pregnant, even though she misses a menstrual period, is that factors other than pregnancy can account for a missed period. Some examples of the factors that can interfere with menstruation are excessive emotional strain, a serious illness, or disturbances of the endocrine organs. In some women, "morning sickness" occurs soon after pregnancy begins. They experience nausea and some vomiting typically in the morning, although these may also occur at other times of day. This symptom usually disappears after the third month. As for tenderness and beginning enlargement of the breasts, these are natural responses to the hormones that control the events of pregnancy. The gland tissue within the breasts must develop gradually in preparation for producing milk after the child is born. [Read Full Article]

Understanding the Eight Common Problems of the Baby's Early Months

2007-06-10T00:36:00.000+08:00

More than any specific training a first-time mother could have had, she will find that the proper handling of her baby is dictated by common sense. For instance, she won't disturb the baby's sleep in order to show him off to visiting friends and relatives. An infant's nervous system is not very stable. Having this in mind, the mother will move slowly, speaking gently and avoiding noises and sudden movements. In lifting the baby, the mother will be careful to support his back and head, because as yet his bones are not strong and he is not able to coordinate his muscles. A baby should not be lifted by his arms, for they are not yet strong enough to support his weight. Neither can the baby change his own position in the crib, so this should be done for him.

Some babies sleep quietly, and some make odd noises in their sleep. A mother will soon get familiar with the pattern her own baby follows. [Read Full Article]

The Five Nutritional Sins: Don't Commit Any of Them

2007-06-10T00:30:00.000+08:00

In describing a well-nourished person, we only have to describe a healthy person. This is logical, for the food a person eats provides the raw material out of which all body processes are supported and maintained. This ideal state of health comes partly from sufficient protein in the diet to provide for the formation and repair of body tissues. There must also be an adequate supply of minerals to reinforce the body tissue, as in the formation and maintenance of teeth and bones. There must be sufficient carbohydrate for energy, as well as the right amount of fat. There must also be vitamins to keep the tissues in good condition and to enable the brain, the nerves, and other vital organs to function well.

But even in "lands of plenty", it is surprising that a high percentage of persons are actually not well-nourished. And why is this so? Because these people have the habit of committing any one of the five common dietary customs responsible for widespread malnutrition. According to diet gurus, these five "nutritional sins" exact their penalty and keep transgressors from enjoying vitality and good health. [Read Full Article]

Eight Effective Ways to Fight Stress

2007-06-10T00:27:00.000+08:00

Stress is a normal part of life. It's as inevitable as death and taxes, and it is concealed in more ways than you can imagine: frustration, anxiety, fear, job and family pressure, sadness and happiness, and boredom and overactivity.

Stress is any pressure, good or bad. Thinking about these negative experiences, in fact, can already be stressful: work hassles, traffic jams, fights at home, death in the family, a divorce, or loss of a job. Every one of these is obviously stressful. But even "happy" events can be challenging and can cause stress: a new job, marriage, buying a house, or having a baby.

Health experts are one in saying that how you respond to stress affects your health. Reacting to it can elevate blood pressure. When that reaction becomes chronic, it can contribute to more serious problems, such as heart disease. That is why it's important to learn how to handle stress. [Read Full Article]

A Guide to Buying Baby Equipment

2007-06-10T00:24:00.000+08:00

Nothing is perhaps more exciting than welcoming a baby into the family. And whether you are the parent, a grandparent, or a close friend, you probably can't wait to celebrate the birth with the purchase of any one of dozens of baby-care gifts.

But did you know that some of the very items used to protect and care for a baby can be dangerous? Each year many furnishings cause serious - sometimes fatal - injury to many babies around the world. Statistics show that injuries related to nursery equipment are common enough to warrant caution. Many accidents occur when parents leave an infant unattended, or when the baby is not properly restrained in the equipment.

When buying baby equipment, there are features you should look for as well as avoid. Here are some guidelines to consider:

Baby swings:

Head injuries are most commonly reported with baby swings. The swing should have well-secured safety straps to keep the baby from slipping out. Your baby should sit, not lie down, in the swing. The seat should be sturdy and needs to be compatible with your baby's weight. [Read Full Article]

The Do's and Don'ts of Using Drugs Safely

2007-06-10T00:18:00.000+08:00

Drugs are chemicals, each one composed of molecules. For the most part, molecules composing drugs are not the kinds that occur naturally in the body. They intrude into the body's community of molecules and have a chemical influence on the way the body functions. According to medical records, many drugs influence the brain. They alter the thoughts, the sensations, the feelings, and the behavior. And this brings us to a serious consideration. Since some drugs can influence the user's mental activities, a person trusts part of his very personality to a drug, and many drugs sold over the counter are more powerful than we realize.

Drugstores handle two kinds of medicines: "over-the-counter drugs" and prescription drugs. The former are supposedly harmless preparations available to anyone. The latter, more profound in their effects, are dispensed only on a doctor's prescription. [Read Full Article]

What to Look for in a Weight-Loss Program before Signing Up

2007-06-10T00:09:00.000+08:00

Some people can lose weight the right way on their own; others benefit from organized programs. However you achieve your goals, you'll want to learn the principles of sustainable weight loss and skip programs and products that don't work or are unsafe.

Nutritionists say that if you consume more calories than you burn, your body stores the excess as fat, causing you to gain weight. If you take in only as much as you use, your weight stays the same. But to lose body fat and weight, you'll need to burn more calories than you consume.

Experts suggest that if you want to slim down, a reasonable goal is to reduce your weight by 10 percent over six months. Most healthy individuals should aim to lose up to about 1/2 to 1 pound (about 500 grams) a week. To lose weight at this rate, you'll have to burn about 200 to 300 more calories each day than you take in. The best way to do that is to limit calorie intake while increasing exercise. [Read Full Article]

Bananas in Singles for Sale: Hooray to the American Consumers

2007-06-09T23:59:00.000+08:00

Without a doubt, the banana is one of the most popular fruits in the world. And next to milk, it is considered to be the most complete food when it comes to providing our bodies with the needed energy and in preventing a substantial number of illnesses. It is not fattening and has no cholesterol. Bananas are rich in carbohydrates, contain phosphorus, potassium, vitamins A and C, and three natural sugars - sucrose, fructose, and glucose.

As an integral part of a diet, bananas can help prevent a number of health-related conditions. For example, since they are high in iron, bananas can stimulate the production of hemoglobin in the blood and thus help in preventing anemia. As they are likewise high in fiber, they can help prevent constipation by restoring normal bowel action without resorting to laxatives. They can boost brain power, as researches have shown: as they are packed with potassium, bananas can assist in the learning process of students by making them more alert. Their large amounts of potassium can also help in preventing dehydration. Here's a good tip: If you are bitten by an insect (a mosquito, in particular), don't go outright for the insect bite cream. Instead, try rubbing the affected area with the inside of a banana skin first. Many people find it surprisingly successful at reducing swelling and irritation. [Read Full Article]

Things we can do to Slow down Global Warming

2007-06-09T23:53:00.000+08:00

Global Warming is in the news almost everyday - in newspapers and on television news broadcasts - around the world. Extreme weather conditions and climatic changes that are experienced across the globe have indeed become concerns of great proportion. Scientific records, in fact, indicate that the last 15 years have seen the 10 warmest years ever recorded on Earth. And in some countries, particularly those in Southeast Asia, people are seeing a trend that is now cause for worry - the periods between the occurrences of the El Nino phenomenon are becoming shorter and shorter. El Nino is an abnormal warming of sea-surface temperatures in the Pacific Ocean (as opposed to the La Nina phenomenon which is characterized by below normal sea temperatures). A few decades ago in the Philippines, for example, the periods between El Nino's used to be 5 to 10 years. "The intervals have become much shorter now - down to 3 years", according to the Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration. More instances of El Nino will mean more hot and dry spells for that country, causing drought on land and the destruction of coral reefs in the seas. [Read Full Article]

The Art of Questioning: A Guide to Teachers

2007-06-09T23:33:00.000+08:00

Even in today's modern educational practices, the art of questioning has remained one of the best tools in promoting effective learning. In fact, questioning continues to be an essential component of good teaching. There are even some people who believe that the effectiveness of a teacher can be measured by his ability to ask good questions. And yet far too many teachers take this teaching tool for granted, or use it carelessly.

Skillful questioning involves knowledge of the various uses of the question, the characteristics of a good question, the techniques of questioning, and the techniques of handling the learners' responses. It often takes many years of classroom experience, professional reading, and self-evaluation for a teacher to be a proficient questioner. All the while, the teacher must make a constant and persistent effort to improve his questioning ability and technique. [Read Full Article]

The Great American Presidents and their Famous one-line Quotes

2007-04-29T20:38:00.000+08:00

1. George Washington (1789-1797)

"My movements to the chair of government will be followed by feelings like those of a criminal going to his execution."

2. John Adams (1797-1801)

"I do not say when I became a politician, for I never was one."

3. Thomas Jefferson (1801-1809)

"Science is my passion; politics, my duty."

4. James Madison (1809-1817)

"I would sooner be a constable than run for President."

5. James Monroe (1817-1825)

"There is every reason to believe that our government will achieve the highest level of perfection."

6. John Quincy Adams (1825-1829)

"I am a man of cold and forbidding manners."

7. Andrew Jackson (1829-1837)

"I only know two tunes. One is 'Yankee Doodle', the other ain't."

8. Martin Van Buren (1837-1841)

"As to the Presidency, the two happiest days of my life were those of my entrance upon the office and my surrender of it."

9. William Henry Harrison (1841)

"Some folks are silly enough to have formed a plan to make a president of the U.S. out of this clod hopper."

10. John Tyler (1841-1845)

"The only people who seem to like me are my children."

11. James K. Polk (1845-1849)

"I prefer to supervise the whole operation of government myself."

12. Zachary Taylor (1849-1850)

"The idea of my becoming president seems too ridiculous to think about."

13. Millard Fillmore (1850-1853)

"May God save the country, for it is obvious the people will not."

14. Franklin Pierce (1853-1857)

"You have summoned me in my weakness. You must sustain me with your strength."

15. James Buchanan (1857-1861)

"At least I meant well for my country."

16. Abraham Lincoln (1861-1865)

"Government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth."

17. Andrew Johnson (1865-1869)

"Duties have been mine; consequences are God's."

18. Ulysses S. Grant (1869-1877)

"The art of war is simple. Find out where the enemy is. Get at him as soon as you can. Strike at him as hard as you can and keep moving."

19. Rutherford B. Hayes (1877-1881)

"No one ever left the presidency with less regret."

20. James A. Garfield (1881)

"What is there in this place that a man should ever want to get into it?"

21. Chester A. Arthur (1881-1885)

"Heaven save us."

22 & 24. Grover Cleveland (1885-1889) and (1893-1897)

"I have tried so hard to do right."

23. Benjamin Harrison (1889-1893)

"...So high a degree of prosperity and so general a diffusion of the comforts of life were never before enjoyed by our people..."

25. William McKinley (1897-1901)

"I am a tariff man, standing on a tariff platform."

26. Theodore Roosevelt (1901-1909)

"Speak softly and carry a big stick."

27. William Taft (1909-1913)

"Politics, when I am in it, makes me sick."

28. Woodrow Wilson (1913-1921)

"A Yankee always thinks he's right. A Scotch-Irish knows it."

29. Warren G. Harding (1921-1923)

"I am not fit for this office and never should have been here."

30. Calvin Coolidge (1923-1929)

"The business of America is business."

31. Herbert Hoover (1929-1933)

"Prosperity is just around the corner."

32. Franklin D. Roosevelt (1933-1945)

"The only thing we have to fear is fear itself."

33. Harry S. Truman (1945-1953)

"The buck stops here."

34. Dwight D. Eisenhower (1953-1961)

"You know, once in a while I get to the point, with everybody staring at me, where I want to go back indoors and pull down the curtains."

35. John F. Kennedy (1961-1963)

"Ask not what your country can do for you; ask what you can do for your country."

36. Lyndon B. Johnson (1963-1969)

"Let us reason together."

37. Richard M. Nixon (1969-1974)

"I never in my life wanted to be left behind."

38. Gerald Ford (1974-1977)

"I'm the first Eagle Scout president of the U.S."

39. Jimmy Carter (1977-1981)

"I will never lie to the American people."

40. Ronald Reagan (1981-1989)

"I'm not smart enough to lie."

41. George Bush (1989-1993)

"I want a kinder and gentler nation."

42. William "Bill" Clinton (1993-2001)

"I think everybody has work to do, and you're supposed to do the best you can."

43. George Bush Jr. (2001-Present)

"You never know what your history is going to be like until long after you're gone."

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NOTE: Period in parenthesis ( ) denotes term of office.
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Source: "Our American Presidents" by Joan Bumann and John Patterson

AGLOCO

2007-03-17T00:26:00.000+08:00

I recently joined AGLOCO because of a friend recommended it to me. I am now promoting it to you because I like the idea and I want you to share in what I think will be an exciting new Internet concept.

AGLOCO’s story is simple:

Do you realize how valuable you are? Advertisers, search providers and online retailers are paying billions to reach you while you surf. How much of that money are you making? NONE!

AGLOCO thinks you deserve a piece of the action.

AGLOCO collects money from those companies on behalf of its members. (For example, Google currently pays AOL 10 cents for every Google search by an AOL user. And Google still has enough profit to pay $1.6 billion dollars for YouTube, an 18-month old site full of content that YouTube’s users did not get paid for!

AGLOCO will work to get its Members their share of this and more.

AGLOCO is building a new form of online community that they call an Economic Network. They are not only paying Members their fair share, but they’re building a community that will generate the kind of fortune that YouTube made. But instead of that wealth making only a few people rich, the entire community will get its share.

What's the catch? No catch - no spyware, no pop-ups and no spam - membership and software are free and AGLOCO is 100% member owned. Privacy is a core value and AGLOCO never sells or rents member information.

Sign up for a free AGLOCO right now! And help build AGLOCO Here.

HEALTH APPRAISAL

2007-03-10T16:54:00.000+08:00

Emergencies strike when you least expect them, no matter how much care we take in and around our home, accidents will happen and illness will strike unexpectedly. At such times, speedy actions are essential. This site is designed for quick instant access to information on symptoms and treatments that might save a life. A list of some illnesses or accidents is provided with the information you might need in case of emergency. [Read more]