Obesity is the second leading cause of death after smoking. It is associated with an increased mortality rate of all ages including children. Losing weight though commercialized is still to your benefit if you carry more weight than you should.
Obesity and overweight are term often used interchangeably. However, technically they refer to two different states.
Being overweight technically means excess body mass. This includes all the body tissues. Obesity on the other hand refers explicitly to excess body fat e.g. a professional heavy weight body builder is overweight because of excess muscles but is not obese.
Obesity is what should concern you. Losing weight is no longer an issue you can afford to procrastinate, and probably a good health scare is in order.
Reason #1 to lose weight
Diabetes:- It is well known that 80 -90% of type-two-diabetes patients are overweight. Diabetes is the third leading cause of death in the U.S., as well as the leading cause of adult blindness in the world. One of the direct causes of obesity is eating wrong foods. Some of these wrong foods include high glycemic foods. High glycemic foods are energy dense foods that quickly increase the level of blood glucose in your body after been eaten. This results to the body reserving the unnecessarily high glucose/energy into fat. This makes losing weight very difficult.
Releasing a hormone called insulin does this. Type-Two-diabetes occurs because the body cannot produce enough insulin to remove the excess blood glucose and store it as body fat. This will occur after straining insulin production for some time. And that is how you end up being fat and diabetic.
Reason #2 to lose weight
Stroke: - Obesity is associated with arteriosclerosis, the build up of fatty deposits in the arteries through out your body. This makes them narrow slowing blood flow and among other things increases risk of the blood clotting. Arteries at risk include those supplying blood to the brain. If clotting occurs due to narrowed artery, it blocks blood supply to an area of the brain resulting to stroke. Losing weight reduces this risk.
Reason #3 to lose weight
Cancer: - The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates between 25% - 33% of cancer world wide are overweight and physical inactivity related. Body fat evidently promotes higher levels of insulin production and excess estoregens, a hormone. Both insulin and estorogens accelerate cell division.
(Probably to create adipose tissue; new fat cells to store fat, in addition to the regular cell division)
As research has indicated, the faster cells duplicate the more they increase chances of a cancerous cell developing. The situation is further complicated as the rapid cell division caused by the excess hormones lead also to rapid cell reproduction of the one cancerous cell, hence cancer starts to develop actively. In addition fat cells tend to keep carcinogenic i.e. cancer-causing agents, trapped in the body which increases chances of developing cancer. Types of cancers you will be at high risk to get include:- Breast cancer- affecting the breast possibly in both men and women. Colorectal cancer- affecting colon and rectum. Prostrate cancer- affecting the prostrate gland in men. Endometrial cancer- affecting the uterus. Esophageal cancer- affecting the esophagus. Renal cell cancer, the cancer of the kidney, etc.
Reason #4 to lose weight
Respiratory problems: - Obesity causes lungs to "become smaller" in size and chest wall become heavier to lift in the process of breathing in. The most common respiratory problem is sleep apnea. Sleep apnea is a condition where by an individual stops breathing for some time while asleep. A soft tissue in the throat collapses around the air way probably due to weight, blocking it. For the severely obese sleep apnea may get more complicated with hypoventilation. Hypoventilation is accumulation of toxic levels of carbon dioxide (the gas we breathe out) in the blood, due to inadequate breathing. Losing weight would be the only permanent safe and healthy solution to sleep apnea.
Reason #5 to lose weight
Urinary Incontinence: - This is involuntary release of urine. Being overweight can contribute to urinary incontinence. A heavy abdomen due to body fat deposit may cause valve of urinary bladder to be weakened. The weight also exerts pressure on the urinary bladder, trying to push urine out. This results to leakage of urine when coughing, sneezing or laughing. This is because of a slight relaxation of the bladder valve that normally will not result to leakage. It can even result to bed wetting at night. This particular problem can be a very effective motivator to lose weight.
Reason #6 to lose weight
Varicose veins: - Also known as Venous Stratis Disease. The leg and thigh muscles assist the heart in blood circulation just like most large muscles in the body. They are involved in pumping blood against gravity back to the heart with the help of valves that close to avoid a backward flow. Pressure as a result of a large abdomen may increase the work load on the valves eventually causing damage. Damaged valves then allow for blood to back up, due to gravity, causing high pressure in these veins leading to swelling, thickening of skin and skin ulcers.
Reason #7 to lose weight
High Blood Pressure: - The BMI (Body Mass Index) and age together are the strongest indicator of risk of hypertension or high blood pressure. At least a third of hypertension is related to obesity.
Reason #8 to lose weight
Other Diseases: - Other diseases which MAY occur as a result of being overweight include; Gout, Coronary heart disease, Lower back pains, Osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Gall stones, Pregnancy disorders such as, Neural tube defect, Prenatal mortality, Maternal hypertension, Gestational diabetes, Impaired immune response, Liver disease, Pancreatitis, Bad body smell and Depression
Research shows that even modest weight loss of even 10 pound for the overweight significantly reduces the risk of developing these diseases. Weight loss is in fact a challenge taken by many every year.
Unfortunately many fail in this healthy endeavor. And all because of one thing; they lack proper information on effective weight loss. Effective weight loss is permanent, and a permanent weight loss depends fundamentally on four factors. These four are what we at Health-eMark call the 'Top 4 Reasons for Weight Loss Failure'.
2007年12月31日星期一
Toyota Modified Valve Body
As many Toyota and Jeep owners know, the AW4 / Toyota 340,
A340, and A341E series of transmissions are generally very
well made and demonstrate excellent durability in unmodified
applications. The framework is present for an extremely
strong transmission that is to be used in a high performance
or extreme duty application.
The problem is that the original calibration is engineered
for driver comfort rather than ultimate component strength.
The soft, sliding shifts that are part of the original
design are not appropriate for increased horsepower
applications, towing, off road use, racing, etc.
These calibration inadequacies quickly manifest themselves
as extremely poor shift quality, and more often than not,
severe damage to the gearbox is soon to follow. One of the
most common symptoms of this is the engine stuttering or
hitting the rev limiter during a full throttle upshift.
Without going into too much technical detail, the factory
shortcomings can be addressed through modification and
recalibration of the control valve assembly, a.k.a. the
valve body.
The valve body is a component that is comprised of valves,
solenoids, an orifice separator plate and an intricate
series of passages- it is the most complex component in the
most complex part of your vehicle- the automatic
transmission.
The function of the valve body is to act as the "brain" of
the automatic transmission- it directs hydraulic pressure to
the appropriate clutches and bands at the right time to
initiate upshifts, down shifts, selection of reverse,
converter clutch application, etc. As well as controlling
shift timing and shift quality, it is also responsible for
directing hydraulic pressure to the cooler and the
lubrication circuit.
As you can imagine, the transmission's operational
characteristics can be drastically altered and also
customized to the given application through modifications to
this component.
Because there are no commercially available shift kits for
these transmissions, we began working on valve body
modifications that were appropriate for Supras, Jeeps with
the AW4 transmission, Toyota Tundra, Tacoma and 4Runner, and
also Lexus SUV's and rear drive passenger cars- especially
those that needed to handle the additional power that
accompanies the installation of a supercharger, turbo or
nitrous oxide injection.
At the risk of oversimplification, there are a few things
that are done in concert to create much more favorable
operation of the gearbox.
The first thing that needs to be done is to increase the
hydraulic operating pressure of the transmission- this
pressure is known as "line pressure". All hydraulic
functions of the transmission are based on this pressure-
what is especially of concern for these purposes is the
clamping force which is applied to the clutches and bands to
get them to hold against engine torque.
In simple terms, increased engine output is complemented by
increased line pressure and increased "clamp" on the
clutches- this can be likened to a performance clutch with a
heavier pressure plate spring in a manual transmission
equipped vehicle.
The idea is to raise this pressure only slightly at light
throttle but increase it by 30-40% at full throttle- where
it is really needed. The effects of this are shifts that are
not overly uncomfortable at lower throttle openings, while
at heavier throttle, firm shifts with much shorter clutch
application time and increased clamping force can be
achieved.
An additional benefit of this is increased flow through the
transmission's cooler and lube system.
Secondly, hydraulic pressure is normally routed through an
orifice in a metal "separator plate" that resides between
the two halves of the valve body before it gets to its
intended destination. By altering these orifices, we can
increase the volume of hydraulic oil that is used to apply
the various clutches and bands.
The final part of modification is the alteration of the
accumulator circuits. These are hydraulic circuits that are
parallel to the components that are used for shifting. Their
function is to absorb or "accumulate" some of the hydraulic
pressure that is intended to apply a clutch pack or band. By
limiting the action of what is essentially a "shock
absorber" for each shift, we are able to further reduce
clutch lock up time and shift lag at wide open throttle.
The end result is that shift time is reduced by 30 to 80%,
depending on the amount of acceptable shift feel and the
intended application. The clamping force that is required to
apply the clutches and bands is increased by 30 to 40% at
full throttle. Flow through the cooler and lube circuit is
increased and the converter clutch application time is also
reduced.
Transmission and valve body upgrades are not only for
American made vehicles anymore. Increased performance and
more efficient shifting is now available for vehicles of
almost every manufacturer thanks to the few companies that
are willing to do the research and development work required
for this rapidly growing segment of the automotive
aftermarket.
A340, and A341E series of transmissions are generally very
well made and demonstrate excellent durability in unmodified
applications. The framework is present for an extremely
strong transmission that is to be used in a high performance
or extreme duty application.
The problem is that the original calibration is engineered
for driver comfort rather than ultimate component strength.
The soft, sliding shifts that are part of the original
design are not appropriate for increased horsepower
applications, towing, off road use, racing, etc.
These calibration inadequacies quickly manifest themselves
as extremely poor shift quality, and more often than not,
severe damage to the gearbox is soon to follow. One of the
most common symptoms of this is the engine stuttering or
hitting the rev limiter during a full throttle upshift.
Without going into too much technical detail, the factory
shortcomings can be addressed through modification and
recalibration of the control valve assembly, a.k.a. the
valve body.
The valve body is a component that is comprised of valves,
solenoids, an orifice separator plate and an intricate
series of passages- it is the most complex component in the
most complex part of your vehicle- the automatic
transmission.
The function of the valve body is to act as the "brain" of
the automatic transmission- it directs hydraulic pressure to
the appropriate clutches and bands at the right time to
initiate upshifts, down shifts, selection of reverse,
converter clutch application, etc. As well as controlling
shift timing and shift quality, it is also responsible for
directing hydraulic pressure to the cooler and the
lubrication circuit.
As you can imagine, the transmission's operational
characteristics can be drastically altered and also
customized to the given application through modifications to
this component.
Because there are no commercially available shift kits for
these transmissions, we began working on valve body
modifications that were appropriate for Supras, Jeeps with
the AW4 transmission, Toyota Tundra, Tacoma and 4Runner, and
also Lexus SUV's and rear drive passenger cars- especially
those that needed to handle the additional power that
accompanies the installation of a supercharger, turbo or
nitrous oxide injection.
At the risk of oversimplification, there are a few things
that are done in concert to create much more favorable
operation of the gearbox.
The first thing that needs to be done is to increase the
hydraulic operating pressure of the transmission- this
pressure is known as "line pressure". All hydraulic
functions of the transmission are based on this pressure-
what is especially of concern for these purposes is the
clamping force which is applied to the clutches and bands to
get them to hold against engine torque.
In simple terms, increased engine output is complemented by
increased line pressure and increased "clamp" on the
clutches- this can be likened to a performance clutch with a
heavier pressure plate spring in a manual transmission
equipped vehicle.
The idea is to raise this pressure only slightly at light
throttle but increase it by 30-40% at full throttle- where
it is really needed. The effects of this are shifts that are
not overly uncomfortable at lower throttle openings, while
at heavier throttle, firm shifts with much shorter clutch
application time and increased clamping force can be
achieved.
An additional benefit of this is increased flow through the
transmission's cooler and lube system.
Secondly, hydraulic pressure is normally routed through an
orifice in a metal "separator plate" that resides between
the two halves of the valve body before it gets to its
intended destination. By altering these orifices, we can
increase the volume of hydraulic oil that is used to apply
the various clutches and bands.
The final part of modification is the alteration of the
accumulator circuits. These are hydraulic circuits that are
parallel to the components that are used for shifting. Their
function is to absorb or "accumulate" some of the hydraulic
pressure that is intended to apply a clutch pack or band. By
limiting the action of what is essentially a "shock
absorber" for each shift, we are able to further reduce
clutch lock up time and shift lag at wide open throttle.
The end result is that shift time is reduced by 30 to 80%,
depending on the amount of acceptable shift feel and the
intended application. The clamping force that is required to
apply the clutches and bands is increased by 30 to 40% at
full throttle. Flow through the cooler and lube circuit is
increased and the converter clutch application time is also
reduced.
Transmission and valve body upgrades are not only for
American made vehicles anymore. Increased performance and
more efficient shifting is now available for vehicles of
almost every manufacturer thanks to the few companies that
are willing to do the research and development work required
for this rapidly growing segment of the automotive
aftermarket.
Heartburn can lead to other health problems?
Heartburn May hint Other evils
From this point forward, we will let you in on little secrets that will help you implement this subject into your life.
There are numerous causes of affectionburn and numerous measures of severity but mainly, it all comes down to stomach acid receiving into the gullet and verdict a way to impede it. How resilient a restoreing is wanted is determined by the severity of the affectionburn.
The stomach uses hydrochloric acid to fracture down food as part of the bodys digestive routine. The stomach lining serves as a protective shelter against this resilient acid; however the gullet is not intended to pact with it and if even little seeps onwards the stomach valve, affectionburn can happen.
While most people endure from some form of affectionburn occasionally, plain and persistent bouts may be symbols of other harms, such as a hiatal hernia or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). While neach one is generally momentous, they will must mind of a surgeon.
There is a one-way door connecting the gullet to the top of the stomach. This allows something that is swallowed to input the stomach and to keep something in the stomach from upcoming back into the gullet. This sphincter muscle sometimes loses its ability to impede the stomach acid from refluxing upwards, causing affectionburn.
A hiatal hernia is when the muscles effective the sphincter have herniated, or in a logic busted, and allows the hydrochloric acid and pepsin to knoll back into the gullet. A food and lifestyle change is generally prescribed by your surgeon pending the muscles have a luck to restore and work well.
induce checkup thought
personnel endureing plain affectionburn, who may have GERD, must to have this fixed by a surgeon to initiate personal remedial restoreing. While proton pump inhibitors may help to a certain measure, their use should seldom exceed two weeks except guided by your surgeon. Proton pump inhibitors, the principal course of Prilosec OTC workings against visit affectionburn by significantly slowing the production of stomach acid.
charming any proton pump inhibitor for affectionburn in a way not recommended by each your surgeon or manufacturer could direct to critical harms and your stomach musts a certain total of acids to well digest foods and fracture down certain bacteria.
If you endure from what you think is a rapid start of affectionburn accompanied by briefness of breath, soreness in the shaft, in the jaw or even in the legs, you should immediately call a surgeon. Many symptoms of a affection raid have been befuddled as affectionburn with plain consequences.
The complexities of the subject matter within this article strive to give you a better look at what this subject is all about.
From this point forward, we will let you in on little secrets that will help you implement this subject into your life.
There are numerous causes of affectionburn and numerous measures of severity but mainly, it all comes down to stomach acid receiving into the gullet and verdict a way to impede it. How resilient a restoreing is wanted is determined by the severity of the affectionburn.
The stomach uses hydrochloric acid to fracture down food as part of the bodys digestive routine. The stomach lining serves as a protective shelter against this resilient acid; however the gullet is not intended to pact with it and if even little seeps onwards the stomach valve, affectionburn can happen.
While most people endure from some form of affectionburn occasionally, plain and persistent bouts may be symbols of other harms, such as a hiatal hernia or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). While neach one is generally momentous, they will must mind of a surgeon.
There is a one-way door connecting the gullet to the top of the stomach. This allows something that is swallowed to input the stomach and to keep something in the stomach from upcoming back into the gullet. This sphincter muscle sometimes loses its ability to impede the stomach acid from refluxing upwards, causing affectionburn.
A hiatal hernia is when the muscles effective the sphincter have herniated, or in a logic busted, and allows the hydrochloric acid and pepsin to knoll back into the gullet. A food and lifestyle change is generally prescribed by your surgeon pending the muscles have a luck to restore and work well.
induce checkup thought
personnel endureing plain affectionburn, who may have GERD, must to have this fixed by a surgeon to initiate personal remedial restoreing. While proton pump inhibitors may help to a certain measure, their use should seldom exceed two weeks except guided by your surgeon. Proton pump inhibitors, the principal course of Prilosec OTC workings against visit affectionburn by significantly slowing the production of stomach acid.
charming any proton pump inhibitor for affectionburn in a way not recommended by each your surgeon or manufacturer could direct to critical harms and your stomach musts a certain total of acids to well digest foods and fracture down certain bacteria.
If you endure from what you think is a rapid start of affectionburn accompanied by briefness of breath, soreness in the shaft, in the jaw or even in the legs, you should immediately call a surgeon. Many symptoms of a affection raid have been befuddled as affectionburn with plain consequences.
The complexities of the subject matter within this article strive to give you a better look at what this subject is all about.
2007年12月30日星期日
How Can I Help My Girlfriend Move Past Her Abusive Past?
This isn't going to be easy, and it requires patience and an understanding that logic will play little or no part in how she feels about what happened to her. Are you committed enough to your relationship to be able to handle that? Are you committed enough to her to want to see this through, regardless how long it takes? The last thing she needs is to have someone tell her they'll help her through this, and then walk away when it seems as if it's taking longer than you thought. There's no time limited on healing this kind of hurt. So are you in the relationship for the long haul? If so, then here are some things you can do to help.
Encourage her to talk. She may want to talk about it. She may not. Don't put her under pressure. Wait until you have an unlimited amount of undisturbed time and ask her to tell you what she's thinking. Girls are deep and they think a lot more than they ever say. She may be ready to open up to you, or she may not trust the relationship enough. She may not even trust herself enough to deal with the emotion that talking about the issues will open up.
Realize that this is not going to be easy for her. She's not talking about the loss of a pet or even favorite relative. This is something that happened to her. Something where she wasn't in control of the situation, and at the moment, she's at least in control of what she does about -- even if it's not the best thing for her. Don't push her to talk. Just give her the opportunity when the time feels right.
Once she's talking -- listen! This is important. Talking may help her, but you interrupting and asking questions will stop her flow and could close her down again. Let her talk until she runs out of steam. Don't try to stop her tears, don't trying calming her down, if this has been bottled up inside her, it's going to be like releasing a safety valve once it does come out. Just be prepared to let her bring it out. You can make encouraging noises, or let her see that you're listening, you can even hold her hand but don't tell her to "shhhh everything's going to be ok now" because everything won't be ok until she gets this out into the open!
When the talking stops, then it's time to find out what she wants to do next. Does she need to be alone? Does she want to just snuggle up with you? Maybe she needs to sleep because she's emotionally drained. Follow her lead. Don't make her feel like an invalid or do anything that you wouldn't normally do. Don't judge her, and don't judge the situation. Just let her know that you love and support her -- and that you appreciate the fact that she trusts you enough to share this part of her past with you.
If she's not willing to talk about it, then you have to respect this. She won't be able to fully move on with her life until she lets go of the past, but until she's ready to do so, you can't make her. Use things like TV drama storylines or documentaries to make a non-judgmental statement in the hope of drawing her out. Once she starts, sit back and listen.
Once the past is all out in the open, don't bring it up again unless she wants to do so. This is her past, and she's going to be bruised not only by the abuse (physical, verbal or emotional) for the rest of her life, but with your help, the past will have less control on her present and she'll be able to move into a happier future.
Encourage her to talk. She may want to talk about it. She may not. Don't put her under pressure. Wait until you have an unlimited amount of undisturbed time and ask her to tell you what she's thinking. Girls are deep and they think a lot more than they ever say. She may be ready to open up to you, or she may not trust the relationship enough. She may not even trust herself enough to deal with the emotion that talking about the issues will open up.
Realize that this is not going to be easy for her. She's not talking about the loss of a pet or even favorite relative. This is something that happened to her. Something where she wasn't in control of the situation, and at the moment, she's at least in control of what she does about -- even if it's not the best thing for her. Don't push her to talk. Just give her the opportunity when the time feels right.
Once she's talking -- listen! This is important. Talking may help her, but you interrupting and asking questions will stop her flow and could close her down again. Let her talk until she runs out of steam. Don't try to stop her tears, don't trying calming her down, if this has been bottled up inside her, it's going to be like releasing a safety valve once it does come out. Just be prepared to let her bring it out. You can make encouraging noises, or let her see that you're listening, you can even hold her hand but don't tell her to "shhhh everything's going to be ok now" because everything won't be ok until she gets this out into the open!
When the talking stops, then it's time to find out what she wants to do next. Does she need to be alone? Does she want to just snuggle up with you? Maybe she needs to sleep because she's emotionally drained. Follow her lead. Don't make her feel like an invalid or do anything that you wouldn't normally do. Don't judge her, and don't judge the situation. Just let her know that you love and support her -- and that you appreciate the fact that she trusts you enough to share this part of her past with you.
If she's not willing to talk about it, then you have to respect this. She won't be able to fully move on with her life until she lets go of the past, but until she's ready to do so, you can't make her. Use things like TV drama storylines or documentaries to make a non-judgmental statement in the hope of drawing her out. Once she starts, sit back and listen.
Once the past is all out in the open, don't bring it up again unless she wants to do so. This is her past, and she's going to be bruised not only by the abuse (physical, verbal or emotional) for the rest of her life, but with your help, the past will have less control on her present and she'll be able to move into a happier future.
Rolls Royce Phantom Silver Honors Silver Ghosts
In regard to the formation of the worlds first true luxury automaker, Rolls Royce, who received top billing, the businessman or the designer? Businessman Charles Rolls came first with second billing going to engineer Henry Royce.
Charles and Henry agreed that Rolls company would exclusively sell all vehicles made by Royce. Rolls Royce Motor Cars made its official debut in 1904 at the Paris Salon. Perhaps Royce Rolls sounded too much like a pun or a criticism than an appropriate nomenclature for a fledgling car manufacturer. Shortly thereafter Royce designed vehicles were ruling the roadways.
The first Rolls Royce made was a 10 horsepower, two cylinder vehicle with a top speed of 39 mph. By 1906 the automaker had a vehicle with three chassis styles and six cylinder inline engines capable of exceeding 50 mph.
The first Rolls Royce with an enclosed backseat, the Pullman by Barker, also was introduced at that time. Rolls Royce elevated its status to a producer of elite vehicles with the Silver Ghost in 1907. It was the first reliable and smooth riding manufactured. It set a world record for a non stop motor run, traveling an astonishing 14,371 miles.
The most popular body types of the most elite car of the era were the enclosed Barker cabriolet, the Barker Tourer, the Hooper Landaulet, and the London Edinburg. The fabled vehicle first gained notoriety when it was entered into the 1907 Scottish Reliability Run, winning the gold medal in its class for hill climbing and reliability.
Silver Ghosts were manufactured from 1907 to 1925. It is astonishing that the majority of the 6,000 Silver Ghosts built still run well today. Aside from Rolls Royce, how many automakers today would dare say their cars could be driven 100 years from now?
Rolls Royce has produced 25 Phantom Silvers to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Silver Ghost. The Phantom Silvers bespoke paint color is Metallic Ghost Silver. The interior of the limited edition comes in rose leaf or cream light leather. The RR logo is embroidered into both the piping and the headrests.
Eco friendly Santos Palisander rosewood is used throughout the cabin. The varied grain rosewood also is used for a presentation box that holds the key, two solid silver key fobs and a specially commissioned Conway Stewart fountain pen. The LCD screen for the navigational system is strategically concealed behind the clock in the dashboard to preserve the car's classic decorum.
Beneath the hood of this refined vehicle is a fuel injected V12 engine with 48 valves that accelerates from zero to 60 mph in 5.7 seconds. Its top speed is 149 mph. The sedan has a maintenance free six speed transmission and speed sensitive rack andpinion steering.
The Phantom Silver sets on 21 inch alloy wheels with chrome centers. The Spirit of Ecstasy, which has been the automakers traditional grille ornament since 1911, is solid silver. It is retractable for security purposes.
Rolls Royce produced automobiles and aero engines until 1971. Bleak financial circumstances forced the firm into receivership and the divisions became separate companies. The BMW Group has been the owner of the Rolls Royce line since 1998. While many other brands have strived and risen to attain recognition, Rolls Royce Motor Company possessed such panache from its inception.
Charles and Henry agreed that Rolls company would exclusively sell all vehicles made by Royce. Rolls Royce Motor Cars made its official debut in 1904 at the Paris Salon. Perhaps Royce Rolls sounded too much like a pun or a criticism than an appropriate nomenclature for a fledgling car manufacturer. Shortly thereafter Royce designed vehicles were ruling the roadways.
The first Rolls Royce made was a 10 horsepower, two cylinder vehicle with a top speed of 39 mph. By 1906 the automaker had a vehicle with three chassis styles and six cylinder inline engines capable of exceeding 50 mph.
The first Rolls Royce with an enclosed backseat, the Pullman by Barker, also was introduced at that time. Rolls Royce elevated its status to a producer of elite vehicles with the Silver Ghost in 1907. It was the first reliable and smooth riding manufactured. It set a world record for a non stop motor run, traveling an astonishing 14,371 miles.
The most popular body types of the most elite car of the era were the enclosed Barker cabriolet, the Barker Tourer, the Hooper Landaulet, and the London Edinburg. The fabled vehicle first gained notoriety when it was entered into the 1907 Scottish Reliability Run, winning the gold medal in its class for hill climbing and reliability.
Silver Ghosts were manufactured from 1907 to 1925. It is astonishing that the majority of the 6,000 Silver Ghosts built still run well today. Aside from Rolls Royce, how many automakers today would dare say their cars could be driven 100 years from now?
Rolls Royce has produced 25 Phantom Silvers to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Silver Ghost. The Phantom Silvers bespoke paint color is Metallic Ghost Silver. The interior of the limited edition comes in rose leaf or cream light leather. The RR logo is embroidered into both the piping and the headrests.
Eco friendly Santos Palisander rosewood is used throughout the cabin. The varied grain rosewood also is used for a presentation box that holds the key, two solid silver key fobs and a specially commissioned Conway Stewart fountain pen. The LCD screen for the navigational system is strategically concealed behind the clock in the dashboard to preserve the car's classic decorum.
Beneath the hood of this refined vehicle is a fuel injected V12 engine with 48 valves that accelerates from zero to 60 mph in 5.7 seconds. Its top speed is 149 mph. The sedan has a maintenance free six speed transmission and speed sensitive rack andpinion steering.
The Phantom Silver sets on 21 inch alloy wheels with chrome centers. The Spirit of Ecstasy, which has been the automakers traditional grille ornament since 1911, is solid silver. It is retractable for security purposes.
Rolls Royce produced automobiles and aero engines until 1971. Bleak financial circumstances forced the firm into receivership and the divisions became separate companies. The BMW Group has been the owner of the Rolls Royce line since 1998. While many other brands have strived and risen to attain recognition, Rolls Royce Motor Company possessed such panache from its inception.
How to Safely Help Seniors Take A Stress Free Bath
Anyone who has ever assisted a senior citizen in bathing will tell you that getting the person into and out of the tub safely is the most frightening aspect of the experience for both the elderly person and the care giver.
The walk-in tub is the newest and safest way to alleviate many of those fears. There are no high sides to try and step over and no slippery surfaces to slide on and cause loss of balance. The walk-in tub has a five inch rise with a twenty-four inch inward opening door that seals closed. The built in cushioned seat and the floor surface are both slip-proof.
With the faucets within arms reach and an eighteen inch extendable showerhead, the walk-in tub allows for greater independence than before possible. Seniors are now able to shampoo their own hair and shower themselves, restoring much of their dignity.
Equipped with many safety features, the walk-in tub permits family to rest easy knowing that their loved one can bathe themselves alone. An enhanced faucet reduces the wait time when filling the tub.
The walk-in tub has a special drain feature that allows it to drain many times faster than a conventional style bath tub. This is especially beneficial in the event of a health problem that may require immediate attention.
The walk-in tub has an anti-scald water mixing valve that will not allow the water temperature to rise above the preset temperature, assuring that a burn will not occur. Also, the tub has hydrotherapy jets that use air rather than water.
Extended periods of time exposed to high pressure water damages sensitive skin. With the warm air jets a person can receive the benefits of a water massage for a longer period of time resulting in a more relaxed and rejuvenating bath.
Water is drained rather than recirculated. This assures a bacteria-free environment within the tub. This is especially important for persons with diabetes, open wounds, and after any type of surgical procedure. This is another added bonus if the tub is to be used by another person.
The walk-in tub was designed to fit into the space that is normally used by a conventional tub and the plumbing matches up the same way. It comes in white and biscuit, but other colors are available if ordered. Made of high grade fiberglass, this easy maintenance tub is a must have for any senior in your family.
The walk-in tub is the newest and safest way to alleviate many of those fears. There are no high sides to try and step over and no slippery surfaces to slide on and cause loss of balance. The walk-in tub has a five inch rise with a twenty-four inch inward opening door that seals closed. The built in cushioned seat and the floor surface are both slip-proof.
With the faucets within arms reach and an eighteen inch extendable showerhead, the walk-in tub allows for greater independence than before possible. Seniors are now able to shampoo their own hair and shower themselves, restoring much of their dignity.
Equipped with many safety features, the walk-in tub permits family to rest easy knowing that their loved one can bathe themselves alone. An enhanced faucet reduces the wait time when filling the tub.
The walk-in tub has a special drain feature that allows it to drain many times faster than a conventional style bath tub. This is especially beneficial in the event of a health problem that may require immediate attention.
The walk-in tub has an anti-scald water mixing valve that will not allow the water temperature to rise above the preset temperature, assuring that a burn will not occur. Also, the tub has hydrotherapy jets that use air rather than water.
Extended periods of time exposed to high pressure water damages sensitive skin. With the warm air jets a person can receive the benefits of a water massage for a longer period of time resulting in a more relaxed and rejuvenating bath.
Water is drained rather than recirculated. This assures a bacteria-free environment within the tub. This is especially important for persons with diabetes, open wounds, and after any type of surgical procedure. This is another added bonus if the tub is to be used by another person.
The walk-in tub was designed to fit into the space that is normally used by a conventional tub and the plumbing matches up the same way. It comes in white and biscuit, but other colors are available if ordered. Made of high grade fiberglass, this easy maintenance tub is a must have for any senior in your family.
2007年12月29日星期六
Why Heart Fails?
Heart fails when the heart is unable to pump blood effectively. So, why does this happen? Now, let us look at the various causes of heart failure.
The major causes of heart failure, according to cardiologist, are coronary artery disease, high blood pressure, cardiomyopathy, and valvular heart disease.
Coronary artery disease is a major heart attack which often causes impaired functioning of the heart muscles. The heart becomes weaker, resulting in heart failure. In some patients, the heart muscles are not permanently scarred and can still be salvaged by balloon angioplasty or bypass surgery. Others may continue to suffer progressive loss of heart muscles, ending in end stage heart failure.
Enlargement of the heart and ultimate heart failure may result because of untreated long-standing high blood pressure.
Cardiomyopathy is a state where the heart muscle becomes progressively weaker so that it is unable to pump blood properly. In the majority of these patients, the cause is either not clear or unknown and hence, their condition is called idiopathic cardiomyopathy. In some patients, cardiomyopathy can result from viral infection affecting the heart, known as viral myocarditis. Most patients can recover from it, but some do suffer permanent damage to heart muscle resulting in heart failure.
Rheumatic heart disease is a major cause of valvular heart disease. Fortunately, rheumatic heart disease is rarely seen nowadays in most countries with improving social economic conditions. Degenerative heart valve disease is more common. It results in the failure of heart valves to function properly, leading to enlargement of the heart and progressive heart failure. If these patients undergo surgical treatment to repair or replace their damaged heart valves, they may recover.
Is there any treatment for heart disease? If you ask your cardiologist, he or she will probably tell you this: prevention is the best form of treatment for heart disease. The control of risk factors for heart disease, however, can also apply to some causes of heart failure, such as coronary artery disease and high blood pressure.
America's Most Trusted Doctor Reveals ... How to Prevent and Reverse Heart Disease - Without Drugs or Surgery. Read more about his confession at: http://www.howtopreventheartdisease.com/heart-disease-prevention-dr-robert-article.html
The major causes of heart failure, according to cardiologist, are coronary artery disease, high blood pressure, cardiomyopathy, and valvular heart disease.
Coronary artery disease is a major heart attack which often causes impaired functioning of the heart muscles. The heart becomes weaker, resulting in heart failure. In some patients, the heart muscles are not permanently scarred and can still be salvaged by balloon angioplasty or bypass surgery. Others may continue to suffer progressive loss of heart muscles, ending in end stage heart failure.
Enlargement of the heart and ultimate heart failure may result because of untreated long-standing high blood pressure.
Cardiomyopathy is a state where the heart muscle becomes progressively weaker so that it is unable to pump blood properly. In the majority of these patients, the cause is either not clear or unknown and hence, their condition is called idiopathic cardiomyopathy. In some patients, cardiomyopathy can result from viral infection affecting the heart, known as viral myocarditis. Most patients can recover from it, but some do suffer permanent damage to heart muscle resulting in heart failure.
Rheumatic heart disease is a major cause of valvular heart disease. Fortunately, rheumatic heart disease is rarely seen nowadays in most countries with improving social economic conditions. Degenerative heart valve disease is more common. It results in the failure of heart valves to function properly, leading to enlargement of the heart and progressive heart failure. If these patients undergo surgical treatment to repair or replace their damaged heart valves, they may recover.
Is there any treatment for heart disease? If you ask your cardiologist, he or she will probably tell you this: prevention is the best form of treatment for heart disease. The control of risk factors for heart disease, however, can also apply to some causes of heart failure, such as coronary artery disease and high blood pressure.
America's Most Trusted Doctor Reveals ... How to Prevent and Reverse Heart Disease - Without Drugs or Surgery. Read more about his confession at: http://www.howtopreventheartdisease.com/heart-disease-prevention-dr-robert-article.html
VWs Cleanest TDI Engine Meeting Strict Tier 2/Bin 5 Standards
Volkswagens Turbocharged Direct Injection (TDI) is said to be the leader in diesel revolution. TDI engine makes use of the Pumpe Dse system which makes it incredibly efficient. Pumpe Dse which means pump injector have solved the problem of lost pressure through fuel pipes. The injector and pump are integrated in a single Pumpe Dse unit. Each of the cylinders has its own Pumpe Dse unit placed on the cylinder head and operated by the camshaft, injecting fuel directly into the combustion chamber at pressures ranging up to 30,000psi.
The high pressures produce is perfect for efficiently blending of the fuel/air mix, controlling fuel quantities and injection timings. Such clever technology enables TDI to offer the benefits its famous for such as: good fuel economy, reduced exhaust emissions, and increased performance with more torque than the traditional injection systems.
Volkswagen didnt stop with the TDI technology; it has continuously developed and improved it until it has finally come up with the cleanest ever TDI engine. Initial test drives of the high potential Volkswagen technologies demonstrate a remarkable reduction in the emission of nitrogen oxide.
VWs Jetta with a new 2.0 Liter common rail diesel engine with a nitrogen oxide reservoir catalytic converter which complies to the Californian emission standard Tier 2/Bin 5 was used during the test. The Tier2/Bin 5 are considered to have the strictest requirements worldwide. The first production run of the Clean TDI with nitrogen oxide post treatment will be made by 2008 in the US.
The main objective of the entire Clean TDI concept is to reduce nitrogen oxide. Volkswagens engineers in Wolfsburg reached this goal through the internal development of the engine and the use of new emission post-treatment technology giving them a result of up to 90% less nitrogen oxide emissions (NOx).
This result was necessary to comply with the Tier 2/Bin 5 norm which applies to California and four other states in the north-east of America namely Massachusetts, New York, Vermont and Maine. The average Nox emissions allowed is 70 mg per mile and in order to comply with the said standard Volkswagen has developed an entirely new emission treatment technology.
Volkswagen has developed two new systems connected to the oxidation catalytic converter and the particle filter in the exhaust system. At present new NOx reservoir catalytic converter technology is being tested for models below the Passat class. Nitrogen oxide is effectively absorbed like sponge which leads to a high level of efficiency. In terms of the particle filter, the system has a self-cleaning system. How? The engine management system changes operation modes for a few seconds.
For larger and heavier vehicles a Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) catalytic converter is employed. The central element of the SCR is an aqueous solution such as the AdBlue which is transported in an additional tank made from stainless steel or plastic. The solution contains 32.5% urea which is continuously injected into the exhaust system in front of the SCR catalytic converter using a metering valve.
AdBlue solution is a non-toxic, odorless and biodegradable. Volkswagen intends to install the additional tank so that the car can be driven without needing maintenance between services. VW is the diesel pioneer in the US and approximately more than 800,000 diesel cars from Volkswagen have already been sold.
2007年12月28日星期五
Finding Relief From Acid Reflux Disease
Millions of people suffer from acid reflux disease which can range from a hoarse throat in the morning to symptoms that might have you rushing to the doctor thinking you are having a heart attack!
This very common chronic condition, sometimes referred to as heartburn by every day folks and often called gastroespohageal reflux disease or GERD by your doctor is not only very uncomfortable, but it can also lead to very serious problems due to the stomach acids burning your esophagus if left unchecked over long periods of time. This condition called Erosive Esophagitis can be serious and some doctors think it may even be linked to esophageal cancer
If you have ever felt that burning in your throat or tasted the bitter sour taste in the back of your mouth then you won't be surprised to learn that acid reflux is caused by stomach acids, and sometimes food, backing up into your esophagus. There is a muscle in between the stomach and esophagus and this muscle acts like a valve that lets food enter from the esophagus into the stomach but is supposed to only open one way so that food and stomach acids cannot back up. However, in many people this muscle does not function properly and the result is acid reflux.
There are many ways to treat acid reflux but you will want to visit a health professional to get a good diagnosis before you choose the right path for you to take. Usually treating acid reflux is an ongoing process and your doctor might suggest medicines such as pump inhibiters that reduce the amount of acid produced or he may leave it to simple dietary and lifestyle changes such as avoiding some foods and sleeping on an incline
No matter what your doctor suggests, it's in your best interest to find out what foods trigger bouts of heartburn for you. Try keeping a food diary and noting what you eat, when you eat it and how you feel shortly after. This will tell you what foods you might think about avoiding. Typically fatty and fried foods cause acid reflux. Other foods you might want to avoid include chocolate, tomotoe based foods, peppermint, citrus and spicy foods.
Other things you can do to reduce the effects of acid reflux disease include wearing loose clothing (especially around your stomach area) and not eating for several hours before bedtime.
This very common chronic condition, sometimes referred to as heartburn by every day folks and often called gastroespohageal reflux disease or GERD by your doctor is not only very uncomfortable, but it can also lead to very serious problems due to the stomach acids burning your esophagus if left unchecked over long periods of time. This condition called Erosive Esophagitis can be serious and some doctors think it may even be linked to esophageal cancer
If you have ever felt that burning in your throat or tasted the bitter sour taste in the back of your mouth then you won't be surprised to learn that acid reflux is caused by stomach acids, and sometimes food, backing up into your esophagus. There is a muscle in between the stomach and esophagus and this muscle acts like a valve that lets food enter from the esophagus into the stomach but is supposed to only open one way so that food and stomach acids cannot back up. However, in many people this muscle does not function properly and the result is acid reflux.
There are many ways to treat acid reflux but you will want to visit a health professional to get a good diagnosis before you choose the right path for you to take. Usually treating acid reflux is an ongoing process and your doctor might suggest medicines such as pump inhibiters that reduce the amount of acid produced or he may leave it to simple dietary and lifestyle changes such as avoiding some foods and sleeping on an incline
No matter what your doctor suggests, it's in your best interest to find out what foods trigger bouts of heartburn for you. Try keeping a food diary and noting what you eat, when you eat it and how you feel shortly after. This will tell you what foods you might think about avoiding. Typically fatty and fried foods cause acid reflux. Other foods you might want to avoid include chocolate, tomotoe based foods, peppermint, citrus and spicy foods.
Other things you can do to reduce the effects of acid reflux disease include wearing loose clothing (especially around your stomach area) and not eating for several hours before bedtime.
2007年12月27日星期四
Prepare For A Flood The Best Way You Could
Believe it or not, floods are the natural disasters that are most common in America.
According to statistics, more than a hundred people are killed by floods every year. Also, more than four billion dollars are the cost damages caused by floods.
All this is according to the Red Cross of the United States.
The following are few tips and advice you could do in order to prepare yourself for any flood inevitability.
Expect the expected
It is important that you clearly understand and that you are aware of any damages that a flood could cause. Some of these inevitabilities include boulders that are rolling, trees that are ripped right out from the ground, buildings that are destroyed as well as bridges, sliding debris.
Do not be afraid to ask
It is also vital that you ask around your local zoning and planning office as to whether the property you are on is below the level of the flood or above it. Also, it is always good to know if the area you are in has had a history of being flooded.
This knowledge helps a lot in the preparation of activities and tasks to do in case if a flood does hit.
Familiarize yourself
In your own community, it is best that you familiarize yourself in any or all of the warning signals or signs whenever a flood does occur.
Learn, learn, learn
Know what are your communitys plan for evacuation. This helps you prepare yourself as well as your family and friends as on what to do as well as the step by step drill.
Have an insurance
It helps if you have insurance that is tailored particularly when a flood occurs. Believe it or not, the insurance usually associated with home owners will really not be able to reimburse any damages you may have that are caused by floods.
Keep all vital documents
These documents include any policies for insurance, passports, birth certificates, etc.
All these papers should as much as possible be kept in a box that is waterproof and one which could be accessed easily.
Move, move, move
If in case your fireplace, furnace, electricity panel or water heater is in the basement or 1st floor of your house, you could consider moving it up the attic.
In that way it will be a lot less probable for these to be damaged by raging floodwaters.
Plug it all
Plugging all trap sewers you have in your house using check valves actually prevent any floodwater from going into the drains of your house. During emergencies, using large stoppers or corks is also a good idea to plug tubs and sinks.
Check and build
Checking with the local codes of buildings is a good idea as this will let you know whether it is okay to build walls for floods and to be used as barriers around your own house in order to prevent any floodwater from getting in your premises.
Waterproof it all
In order to protect walls of basements, seal them using waterproof compounds so that floodwaters would be unable to get in through any cracks.
Have a radio and some supplies
As much as possible, keep a radio that is operated by batteries if in case the power goes off.
Having supplies such as canned goods is a must as well as first aid kits. Do not forget a can opener of course.
All in all, preparation is always the best defence against floods.
According to statistics, more than a hundred people are killed by floods every year. Also, more than four billion dollars are the cost damages caused by floods.
All this is according to the Red Cross of the United States.
The following are few tips and advice you could do in order to prepare yourself for any flood inevitability.
Expect the expected
It is important that you clearly understand and that you are aware of any damages that a flood could cause. Some of these inevitabilities include boulders that are rolling, trees that are ripped right out from the ground, buildings that are destroyed as well as bridges, sliding debris.
Do not be afraid to ask
It is also vital that you ask around your local zoning and planning office as to whether the property you are on is below the level of the flood or above it. Also, it is always good to know if the area you are in has had a history of being flooded.
This knowledge helps a lot in the preparation of activities and tasks to do in case if a flood does hit.
Familiarize yourself
In your own community, it is best that you familiarize yourself in any or all of the warning signals or signs whenever a flood does occur.
Learn, learn, learn
Know what are your communitys plan for evacuation. This helps you prepare yourself as well as your family and friends as on what to do as well as the step by step drill.
Have an insurance
It helps if you have insurance that is tailored particularly when a flood occurs. Believe it or not, the insurance usually associated with home owners will really not be able to reimburse any damages you may have that are caused by floods.
Keep all vital documents
These documents include any policies for insurance, passports, birth certificates, etc.
All these papers should as much as possible be kept in a box that is waterproof and one which could be accessed easily.
Move, move, move
If in case your fireplace, furnace, electricity panel or water heater is in the basement or 1st floor of your house, you could consider moving it up the attic.
In that way it will be a lot less probable for these to be damaged by raging floodwaters.
Plug it all
Plugging all trap sewers you have in your house using check valves actually prevent any floodwater from going into the drains of your house. During emergencies, using large stoppers or corks is also a good idea to plug tubs and sinks.
Check and build
Checking with the local codes of buildings is a good idea as this will let you know whether it is okay to build walls for floods and to be used as barriers around your own house in order to prevent any floodwater from getting in your premises.
Waterproof it all
In order to protect walls of basements, seal them using waterproof compounds so that floodwaters would be unable to get in through any cracks.
Have a radio and some supplies
As much as possible, keep a radio that is operated by batteries if in case the power goes off.
Having supplies such as canned goods is a must as well as first aid kits. Do not forget a can opener of course.
All in all, preparation is always the best defence against floods.
Ford Gets 2 in Wards Auto Worlds 10-Best Engines
Ford Motor Co. continues to amass awards and accolades despite the turmoil of running on the bumpy financial road of the auto industry. Lately, two of Ford's engine made it to 10-Best Engines by Wards Auto World.
New 3.5 liter Duratec DOHC 24-valve V6 and 4.6 liter 3-valve SOHC V8 are the power engines that made the automaker stand out from others. In addition, this is V8's third year to receive such commendation from the company. Ford power engines are included in the list of world class engines. Joining the list are the powerful engines from Audi, BMW, Daimler Benz, and Toyota.
This is an exceptional accomplishment and a testament to our powertrain development process." said Barb Samardzich, vice president, Ford Motor Company, Powertrain Product Development Operations. "The 3.5-liter engine class is one of the most competitive in the industry, so it is high praise to have our new engine stand out and be among the 10 best in the industry."
The 3.5 liter V6 is rated at 265 horsepower. Said engine is incorporated with the auto parts for Ford Edge, Lincoln MKX and MKZ. It will soon be incorporated to 302 Ford engine parts of Five Hundred, Freestyle and Fusion. There is also a great possibility of featuring the 3.5 liter V6 as part of Ford Mustang parts accessories. On the one hand, the award-winning 4.6 liter 3-valve V8 from Mustang, Explorer, and Mountaineer, proved its power once again by making it to the list for the third time in a row. Both the 3.5 liter V6 and the 4.6 liter 3-valve V8 deliver an improved power mated to better fuel efficiency and reduced emissions.
Ward's 2007 10 best engines are Audi AG 2L turbocharged DOHC I-4 (Audi A3), BMW AG 3L DOHC I-6 (Z4 3.0si), BMW AG 3L turbocharged DOHC I-6 (335i), DaimlerChrysler AG 3L DOHC V-6 turbodiesel (MB E320 /Jeep Grand Cherokee), DaimlerChrysler AG Hemi 5.7L OHV V-8 (Chrysler 300C), Ford Motor Co. Duratec 35 3.5L DOHC V-6 (Ford Edge/Lincoln MKX), Ford Motor Co. 4.6L SOHC V-8 (Mustang GT/Mustang Shelby GT), Mazda Motor Corp. 2.3L DISI turbocharged DOHC I-4 (Mazdaspeed3), Nissan Motor Co. Ltd. 3.5L DOHC V-6 (Infiniti G35), and Toyota Motor Corp. 3.5L DOHC V-6 (Lexus IS 350).
2007年12月26日星期三
2008 Acura TSX: The Lure
Acura, the luxury brand of Honda Motor Co., offers a new lure in the all-new TSX. The near-premium sports sedan flaunts taut design, razor-sharp reflexes, cutting-edge technology and a long lost of standard luxury features.
The modifications made to the gorgeous sports sedan are aimed at winning over shoppers and enthusiasts. The 2008 TSX continues the exceptional blend of style, performance and efficiency that has helped it attract many new drivers from other players in the sports sedan market.
"The TSX has clearly established itself as a serious player in the sports sedan segment," said Dick Colliver, the executive vice president for sales. "It serves as a critical entry point into the Acura brand for thousands of new luxury customers each year, and delivers in spades on the advanced performance, technology and style of Acura."
The new TSX is powered by an advanced and efficient 2.4-liter DOHC i-VTEC 4-cylinder engine producing 205 horsepower and 164 lb-ft of torque, delivering performance on par with many 6-cylinder powerplants. The computer-controlled i-VTEC "intelligent" intake/exhaust valve actuation system delivers improved performance across a broad powerband.
The TSX engine is also equipped with Drive-By-Wire Throttle technology that helps bolster the cars performance, efficiency and enhanced driver control. Along with its remarkable horsepower output, the car with manual transmission has an EPA fuel economy rating of 19/28 mpg city/highway. Additionally, the automatic transmission version of the car has a rating of 20/28 mpg.
The 2008 TSX is also equipped with air-assisted fuel injectors, a uniquely positioned under floor catalytic converter, and a high-flow stainless-steel exhaust manifold help the TSX achieve the U.S. EPA's stringent Tier 2-Bin 5 (and CARB LEV-2) exhaust emissions standards.
To offer stability and outstanding stopping power, the new TSX is equipped with large 4-wheel disc brakes with ABS, 17-inch alloy wheels and Michelin all-season high-performance tires mated to Acura belts.
On the outside, the TSX shows off dynamic curves and crisp lines. To boost design cues, the sports sedan is given the signature 5-sided Acura grille, angular side markers and bumper-integrated fog lamps. In the rear, the taillights slope to meet a short, high trunk lid that terminates sharply to help air separate cleanly off the back of the car at speed. Stylish nine-spoke, 17-inch alloy wheels finish the TSX's sporty appearance.
Parts of its safety features like the refined and highly responsive suspension, steering and braking systems, the TSX comes equipped with standard Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), anti-lock brakes (ABS) and Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).
In the event of a crash, the car uses multiple advanced safety technologies to help absorb and redirect the energy of the crash. These technologies include dual-stage, dual-threshold driver and front passenger airbags along with side airbags for the driver and front passenger. The passenger side airbag features an Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS) to preclude airbag deployment if a child or small-stature adult leans into the deployment path. What is more, the car is also equipped with side curtain airbags to help protect occupants from head and neck injuries in the event of a significant side impact.
These features, working in conjunction with the vehicle's energy-absorbing body structure, help the car graner a NHTSA 5-star rating in U.S. government's frontal crash test along with a Good rating in the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's (IIHS) 40mph frontal offset test.
The Acura TSX, a product line built by Honda, was unveiled in April 2003. The car is sold in North America to rival entry-level luxury car flagship such as the Audi A4, BMW 3 Series, Lexus IS, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Saab 9-3, and the Volvo S40.
The modifications made to the gorgeous sports sedan are aimed at winning over shoppers and enthusiasts. The 2008 TSX continues the exceptional blend of style, performance and efficiency that has helped it attract many new drivers from other players in the sports sedan market.
"The TSX has clearly established itself as a serious player in the sports sedan segment," said Dick Colliver, the executive vice president for sales. "It serves as a critical entry point into the Acura brand for thousands of new luxury customers each year, and delivers in spades on the advanced performance, technology and style of Acura."
The new TSX is powered by an advanced and efficient 2.4-liter DOHC i-VTEC 4-cylinder engine producing 205 horsepower and 164 lb-ft of torque, delivering performance on par with many 6-cylinder powerplants. The computer-controlled i-VTEC "intelligent" intake/exhaust valve actuation system delivers improved performance across a broad powerband.
The TSX engine is also equipped with Drive-By-Wire Throttle technology that helps bolster the cars performance, efficiency and enhanced driver control. Along with its remarkable horsepower output, the car with manual transmission has an EPA fuel economy rating of 19/28 mpg city/highway. Additionally, the automatic transmission version of the car has a rating of 20/28 mpg.
The 2008 TSX is also equipped with air-assisted fuel injectors, a uniquely positioned under floor catalytic converter, and a high-flow stainless-steel exhaust manifold help the TSX achieve the U.S. EPA's stringent Tier 2-Bin 5 (and CARB LEV-2) exhaust emissions standards.
To offer stability and outstanding stopping power, the new TSX is equipped with large 4-wheel disc brakes with ABS, 17-inch alloy wheels and Michelin all-season high-performance tires mated to Acura belts.
On the outside, the TSX shows off dynamic curves and crisp lines. To boost design cues, the sports sedan is given the signature 5-sided Acura grille, angular side markers and bumper-integrated fog lamps. In the rear, the taillights slope to meet a short, high trunk lid that terminates sharply to help air separate cleanly off the back of the car at speed. Stylish nine-spoke, 17-inch alloy wheels finish the TSX's sporty appearance.
Parts of its safety features like the refined and highly responsive suspension, steering and braking systems, the TSX comes equipped with standard Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), anti-lock brakes (ABS) and Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).
In the event of a crash, the car uses multiple advanced safety technologies to help absorb and redirect the energy of the crash. These technologies include dual-stage, dual-threshold driver and front passenger airbags along with side airbags for the driver and front passenger. The passenger side airbag features an Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS) to preclude airbag deployment if a child or small-stature adult leans into the deployment path. What is more, the car is also equipped with side curtain airbags to help protect occupants from head and neck injuries in the event of a significant side impact.
These features, working in conjunction with the vehicle's energy-absorbing body structure, help the car graner a NHTSA 5-star rating in U.S. government's frontal crash test along with a Good rating in the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's (IIHS) 40mph frontal offset test.
The Acura TSX, a product line built by Honda, was unveiled in April 2003. The car is sold in North America to rival entry-level luxury car flagship such as the Audi A4, BMW 3 Series, Lexus IS, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Saab 9-3, and the Volvo S40.
Enuresis Causes Symptoms Information with Treatment
Persons aged 18 years and older, approximately 1-2% remain enuretic. Families of bed-wetters can experience disturbed sleep, turmoil, and a drain on energy and resources. Children have never achieved complete nighttime control. They have always wet the bed at least two times a month. Children with ADHD are 2.7 time more likely to have bedwetting issues. Difficulties waking up from sleep is cause of enuresis. Stress is controversial as a possible cause of bedwetting. Sleep issues are another controversial potential cause of bedwetting. Chronic constipation can cause bedwetting. Most bedwetting is caused by neurological-developmental problems involving multiple factors. Bedwetting cases are caused by specific medical situations. Bedwetting cases are caused by infection or disease, most common of which is a urinary tract infection. Bedwetting has a strong genetic component. Children whose parents were not enuretic have only a 15% incidence of bedwetting. When one or both parents were bedwetters, the rates jump to 44% and 77% respectively. Caffeine increases urine production. Tricyclic antidepressant prescription drugs with anti-muscarinic properties (i.e. Amitriptyline , Imipramine or Nortriptyline ) may be used to treat bedwetting with much success for periods up to 3 months. Diapers can reduce the embarrassment and mess of wetting incidents.
Causes of Enuresis
Common causes and risk factors of Enuresis
Genetic factors.
Difficulties waking up from sleep
Slower than normal development of the central nervous system.
Hormonal factors.
Urinary tract infections.
Abnormalities in the urethral valves in boys or in the ureter in girls or boys.
Abnormalities in the spinal cord.
Inability to hold urine for a long time because of small bladder.
Signs and Symptoms of Enuresis
Common sign and symptoms of Enuresis
Children have never achieved complete nighttime control. They have always wet the bed at least two times a month.
Children may suffer significant psychological stress and develop feelings of low self-esteem.
Families of bed-wetters can experience disturbed sleep, turmoil, and a drain on energy and resources.
Treatment of Enuresis
Common Treatment of Enuresis
Tricyclic antidepressant prescription drugs with anti-muscarinic properties (Amitriptyline , Imipramine or Nortriptyline ) may be used to treat bedwetting with much success for periods up to 3 months.
Diapers can reduce the embarrassment and mess of wetting incidents.
Positive attitude and motivation to be dry are important components of treatment. Children with NE benefit from a caring and patient attitude by their parents; punishment has no role.
Alarm therapy offers the possibility of sustained improvement of NE and should be considered for every patient.
Desmopressin acetate (DDAVP) is the preferred medication to treat children with NE. Numerous studies report total dryness in 38-55% of children treated with DDAVP.
DDAVP tablets should be administered at bedtime. The recommended starting dose is 0.2 mg, and the drug can be titrated as necessary to a maximum of 0.6 mg.
Anticholinergic medication may be helpful in some patients, especially those with urge syndrome, dysfunctional voiding, or neurogenic bladder. These medications reduce uninhibited detrusor contractions, increase the threshold volume at which an uninhibited detrusor contraction occurs, and enlarge the functional bladder capacity.
Children should be instructed not to drink to excess with the evening meal and to minimize fluid intake after mealtime.
Causes of Enuresis
Common causes and risk factors of Enuresis
Genetic factors.
Difficulties waking up from sleep
Slower than normal development of the central nervous system.
Hormonal factors.
Urinary tract infections.
Abnormalities in the urethral valves in boys or in the ureter in girls or boys.
Abnormalities in the spinal cord.
Inability to hold urine for a long time because of small bladder.
Signs and Symptoms of Enuresis
Common sign and symptoms of Enuresis
Children have never achieved complete nighttime control. They have always wet the bed at least two times a month.
Children may suffer significant psychological stress and develop feelings of low self-esteem.
Families of bed-wetters can experience disturbed sleep, turmoil, and a drain on energy and resources.
Treatment of Enuresis
Common Treatment of Enuresis
Tricyclic antidepressant prescription drugs with anti-muscarinic properties (Amitriptyline , Imipramine or Nortriptyline ) may be used to treat bedwetting with much success for periods up to 3 months.
Diapers can reduce the embarrassment and mess of wetting incidents.
Positive attitude and motivation to be dry are important components of treatment. Children with NE benefit from a caring and patient attitude by their parents; punishment has no role.
Alarm therapy offers the possibility of sustained improvement of NE and should be considered for every patient.
Desmopressin acetate (DDAVP) is the preferred medication to treat children with NE. Numerous studies report total dryness in 38-55% of children treated with DDAVP.
DDAVP tablets should be administered at bedtime. The recommended starting dose is 0.2 mg, and the drug can be titrated as necessary to a maximum of 0.6 mg.
Anticholinergic medication may be helpful in some patients, especially those with urge syndrome, dysfunctional voiding, or neurogenic bladder. These medications reduce uninhibited detrusor contractions, increase the threshold volume at which an uninhibited detrusor contraction occurs, and enlarge the functional bladder capacity.
Children should be instructed not to drink to excess with the evening meal and to minimize fluid intake after mealtime.
2007年12月25日星期二
Phen-Fen Lawsuits in the United States
Fen-Phen (or Phen-Fen) is a combination of the drugs fenfluramine (Pondimin) and phentermine (Fastin) used to treat obesity. The use of Fen-Phen has been associated with serious medical conditions, specifically valvular heart disease (damaged heart valves), PPH (Primary Pulmonary Hypertension) and neuropsychological complications.
The use of these drugs in combination or for extended periods of time was never approved by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration). The FDA eventually requested that they be withdrawn from the market.
Numerous phen-fen lawsuits have been filed by fen-phen attorneys in the United States. They include class action phen-fen lawsuits and claims made on behalf of individuals by fen-phen attorneys in attempts to recover damages related to the use of fen-phen.
The most recent trend has involved a refusal of afflicted consumers to participate in class action litigation mediated by Federal Courts in favor of filing in state jurisdictions, where amounts awarded may be considerably higher. These efforts have been countered by efforts to refer these state cases to higher courts.
Medical Complications:
Valvular heart disease results in inefficiencies in the heart's ability to effectively pump blood to it's ultimate destination, be it the lungs, or to the remainder of the body. People who have developed this complication require intensive medical management of their condition and symptoms, surgical repair of damaged valves, or sometimes replacement of the defective valves.
PPH (Primary Pulmonary Hypertension) also requires complex efforts to manage symptoms medically, but may ultimately require organ transplant. Despite aggressive therapies, it may be fatal.
Neuropsychological complications include changes in behavior, depression or mood swings, memory loss and psychosis. Treatment for these disturbances is limited to efforts aimed at minimizing symptoms, and at times may include medication or hospitalization.
Litigation:
Individual who have suffered damages as a result of taking fen-phen, or fenfluramine and the related drug, dexfenfluramine (Redux) are entitled to compensation for pain and suffering, lost earnings, medical expenses, and punitive damages.
Efforts to assist those people who have suffered damages as a result of taking fen-phen is provided by fen-phen attorneys through litigation (phen-fen lawsuits), either in the form of class action suits or individual claims.
On August 18, 2006, Bloomberg News reported that more than 175,000 claims had been filed since Pondimin and Redux were recalled. They also noted that Wyeth (the company responsible for the manufacture and distribution of these products) had settled countless claims before filing was necessary.
In 1999, American Home Products (Wyeth) suffered a verdict that awarded $23 million to the family of a women who had developed serious medical complication related to her use of one of their products.
American Home Products later negotiated a class action settlement for $3.75 billion which was subsequently increased to $4.75 billion to help pay for damages related to their products.
Thousands of phen-fen lawsuits have been filed across the country in every conceivable jurisdiction related to damages of this type.
The use of these drugs in combination or for extended periods of time was never approved by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration). The FDA eventually requested that they be withdrawn from the market.
Numerous phen-fen lawsuits have been filed by fen-phen attorneys in the United States. They include class action phen-fen lawsuits and claims made on behalf of individuals by fen-phen attorneys in attempts to recover damages related to the use of fen-phen.
The most recent trend has involved a refusal of afflicted consumers to participate in class action litigation mediated by Federal Courts in favor of filing in state jurisdictions, where amounts awarded may be considerably higher. These efforts have been countered by efforts to refer these state cases to higher courts.
Medical Complications:
Valvular heart disease results in inefficiencies in the heart's ability to effectively pump blood to it's ultimate destination, be it the lungs, or to the remainder of the body. People who have developed this complication require intensive medical management of their condition and symptoms, surgical repair of damaged valves, or sometimes replacement of the defective valves.
PPH (Primary Pulmonary Hypertension) also requires complex efforts to manage symptoms medically, but may ultimately require organ transplant. Despite aggressive therapies, it may be fatal.
Neuropsychological complications include changes in behavior, depression or mood swings, memory loss and psychosis. Treatment for these disturbances is limited to efforts aimed at minimizing symptoms, and at times may include medication or hospitalization.
Litigation:
Individual who have suffered damages as a result of taking fen-phen, or fenfluramine and the related drug, dexfenfluramine (Redux) are entitled to compensation for pain and suffering, lost earnings, medical expenses, and punitive damages.
Efforts to assist those people who have suffered damages as a result of taking fen-phen is provided by fen-phen attorneys through litigation (phen-fen lawsuits), either in the form of class action suits or individual claims.
On August 18, 2006, Bloomberg News reported that more than 175,000 claims had been filed since Pondimin and Redux were recalled. They also noted that Wyeth (the company responsible for the manufacture and distribution of these products) had settled countless claims before filing was necessary.
In 1999, American Home Products (Wyeth) suffered a verdict that awarded $23 million to the family of a women who had developed serious medical complication related to her use of one of their products.
American Home Products later negotiated a class action settlement for $3.75 billion which was subsequently increased to $4.75 billion to help pay for damages related to their products.
Thousands of phen-fen lawsuits have been filed across the country in every conceivable jurisdiction related to damages of this type.
BMW 1 Series Coupe Heading to LA Show
BMW AG is poised to introduce the newly launched BMW 1 Series Coupe in North America during the upcoming 2007 Los Angeles Auto Show. The year ending show will be the stage for the American debut of the vehicle.
After unveiling the BMW 1 Series Coupe, the German automaker will roll out the vehicle in dealer showrooms all over the United States in the spring of 2008. Only two model variants of the BMW 1 Series Coupe will be offered: the BMW 128i and the BMW 135i. Both model variants will be equipped with a monstrous 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine under its hood.
This power unit for the BMW 1 Series Coupe is capable of producing 300 horsepower and developing 300 lb ft of torque from 1,400 rpm. The engine is also equipped with powertrain features like direct piezo gasoline injectors, twin turbochargers, and Valvetronic valvetrain management (for the 128i Coupe only). With this powertrain package, it allows both the BMW 1 Series Coupe models to accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in just 5.3 seconds, reaching an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph. In spite of the powerful performance, the engine still offers an impressive fuel economy and low exhaust emissions.
High quality technical parts continue to the suspension, steering, braking system, and other systems. The new BMW 1 Series Coupe offers a sophisticated suspension system with aluminium double-pivot front suspension and a five-link fully independent rear suspension made of lightweight steel. A sports suspension is also offered, which includes high-performance brake system and brake cooling. In addition, BMW also offers Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Dynamic Traction Control (DTC) function, and Active Steering.
Every BMW 1 Series Coupe models is equipped with sophisticated exterior styling and aerodynamic components. The sporty appearance features the long hood, short overhangs, long wheelbase, large frameless doors, and the standard M Aerodynamic Kit. The rear portion of the BMW 1 Series Coupe features trunklid with integrated spoiler, and additional lip spoiler for the 135i Coupe.
As expected for all BMW models, the BMW 1 Series Coupe comes with a luxurious. elegant, and comfortable interior. The car is equipped with 60/40 split rear seat, iDrive system with optional Navigation system, Galvanized pearl gloss surfaces, and Leatherette or rich Boston Leather upholstery, SIRIUS satellite radio, HD radio, Premium Sound system, Bluetooth connectivity, and connection port for MP3 players.
Optional interior features are also offered like the sports buckets seats, which is included in the Sports Package. The 1 Series Coupe could also have BMW racing parts for customization.
2007年12月24日星期一
America is Suffering from an Obesity Epidemic
66 million Americans are clinically obese. That means that they have more than 30% fat by body weight, when a 'normal' body should have less than 25%. Obesity has reached epidemic proportions over the past twenty years.
Obesity used to be thought of as a problem of a few states in Appalachia and the Southeast. It is now prevalent across the United States. In 1990, no state had an obesity prevalence rate greater than 20%, and only 4 states had an obesity rate between 15 and 19%. By 2000, 46 states had obesity rates of greater than 20%, and 17 states had obesity prevalence of over 25%.
The US is a leader in obesity, but rates are climbing around the developed industrial world. It is estimated that there are over 300 million obese people in the world. Rates in China, Western Europe and even Japan are increasing.
Morbid obesity, defined as a BMI (body mass index) of greater than 39%, afflicts 3% of all Americans, or about 9 million people. While the number of obese patients has grown by 24% from 2000 to 2006, the number of morbidly obese people has grown by over 50% during the same period.
Even children are not immune. Whereas childhood obesity was virtually unknown before 1990 in the US, the incidence of obesity has climbed to 13% amongst teens and pre-teens in 2006. Type-II diabetes, previously only an affliction of obese adults, has started to become a concern with children as well.
The statistics are incontrovertible. The key questions are: how does obesity affect the health of those who have it, what is causing this epidemic, and how can we reverse its effects?
Obesity leads to a series of problems. The main concerns with the obese are heart and circulatory diseases (including strokes and peripheral vascular problems) and diabetes. These two problems are interrelated, as diabetics have a much higher chance of contracting circulatory diseases. Even the incidence of some cancers, such as estrogen-dependent breast cancer, can be raised by obesity. Those diseases related to diabetes and overweight are also increased; these include blindness, neuropathy, congestive heart failure and valve calcification.
What are the primary reasons for this growth in the number of obese people in the US? While there was always an underlying level prior to 1990 due to problems with the thyroid, heredity or other hormone imbalances, the growth in obesity since then can only be attributed to the consumption of higher-calorie foods and lack of exercise.
High calorie consumption comes through a number of sources, but especially
"super-sizing." Compare the size of a McDonald's hamburger from the 1980's and one served today, it's three times bigger, on average, by weight.
The presence of sugar and fat in the foods we eat.
We eat out much more often than we did in the past. Restaurants tend to pour on the sugar and fats, and their portions are enormous.
Lower exercise comes from the proliferation of armchair activities we've seen since 1990. At that time, there were four or five main TV channels; there are now over 150 on most televisions. Americans are watching much more television today than they did 20 years ago. In addition, the attractions of the Internet have led to a sedentary existence, particularly for pre-teens and teenagers. The habits that these people form in their youth remain with them for the rest of their lives.
What can be done against obesity and morbid obesity? The usual 'saws' of "more exercise, less caloric intake" are always valid, but heeded less and less. Despite the proliferation of gyms, commercial diet plans and books on dieting, most diets fails.
For those who are morbidly obese, bariatric surgery is the best alternative. Although dangerous, four percent die during or after surgery, and ineffective in over 20% of the cases, bariatric surgery often represents the best opportunity for the morbidly obese person to escape the serious problems brought on by their overweight condition.
Since 2004, when the Medicare CMS approved reimbursement for bariatric surgery, we've seen an explosion in the number of such operations. Whereas there were fewer than 20,000 bariatric surgeries in 1998, that number expanded to nearly 200,000 in 2004. It is estimated that the rate will increase to 800,000 by 2008.
Obesity is a scourge on our modern populace. We should do what we can to address the underlying causes.
Obesity used to be thought of as a problem of a few states in Appalachia and the Southeast. It is now prevalent across the United States. In 1990, no state had an obesity prevalence rate greater than 20%, and only 4 states had an obesity rate between 15 and 19%. By 2000, 46 states had obesity rates of greater than 20%, and 17 states had obesity prevalence of over 25%.
The US is a leader in obesity, but rates are climbing around the developed industrial world. It is estimated that there are over 300 million obese people in the world. Rates in China, Western Europe and even Japan are increasing.
Morbid obesity, defined as a BMI (body mass index) of greater than 39%, afflicts 3% of all Americans, or about 9 million people. While the number of obese patients has grown by 24% from 2000 to 2006, the number of morbidly obese people has grown by over 50% during the same period.
Even children are not immune. Whereas childhood obesity was virtually unknown before 1990 in the US, the incidence of obesity has climbed to 13% amongst teens and pre-teens in 2006. Type-II diabetes, previously only an affliction of obese adults, has started to become a concern with children as well.
The statistics are incontrovertible. The key questions are: how does obesity affect the health of those who have it, what is causing this epidemic, and how can we reverse its effects?
Obesity leads to a series of problems. The main concerns with the obese are heart and circulatory diseases (including strokes and peripheral vascular problems) and diabetes. These two problems are interrelated, as diabetics have a much higher chance of contracting circulatory diseases. Even the incidence of some cancers, such as estrogen-dependent breast cancer, can be raised by obesity. Those diseases related to diabetes and overweight are also increased; these include blindness, neuropathy, congestive heart failure and valve calcification.
What are the primary reasons for this growth in the number of obese people in the US? While there was always an underlying level prior to 1990 due to problems with the thyroid, heredity or other hormone imbalances, the growth in obesity since then can only be attributed to the consumption of higher-calorie foods and lack of exercise.
High calorie consumption comes through a number of sources, but especially
"super-sizing." Compare the size of a McDonald's hamburger from the 1980's and one served today, it's three times bigger, on average, by weight.
The presence of sugar and fat in the foods we eat.
We eat out much more often than we did in the past. Restaurants tend to pour on the sugar and fats, and their portions are enormous.
Lower exercise comes from the proliferation of armchair activities we've seen since 1990. At that time, there were four or five main TV channels; there are now over 150 on most televisions. Americans are watching much more television today than they did 20 years ago. In addition, the attractions of the Internet have led to a sedentary existence, particularly for pre-teens and teenagers. The habits that these people form in their youth remain with them for the rest of their lives.
What can be done against obesity and morbid obesity? The usual 'saws' of "more exercise, less caloric intake" are always valid, but heeded less and less. Despite the proliferation of gyms, commercial diet plans and books on dieting, most diets fails.
For those who are morbidly obese, bariatric surgery is the best alternative. Although dangerous, four percent die during or after surgery, and ineffective in over 20% of the cases, bariatric surgery often represents the best opportunity for the morbidly obese person to escape the serious problems brought on by their overweight condition.
Since 2004, when the Medicare CMS approved reimbursement for bariatric surgery, we've seen an explosion in the number of such operations. Whereas there were fewer than 20,000 bariatric surgeries in 1998, that number expanded to nearly 200,000 in 2004. It is estimated that the rate will increase to 800,000 by 2008.
Obesity is a scourge on our modern populace. We should do what we can to address the underlying causes.
Congenital Heart Disease Demystified
This article is an attempt to remove confusion concerning some of the issues regarding congenital heart disease.
Congenital heart disease is a kind of malformation or heart defect that exists somewhere in the heart. In some cases it is a defect that can be found in one of the blood vessels of the heart. It is defined as congenital because the defect is present when a baby is born. It is strongly believed that these types of heart defects take place while the fetus is developing but it is not clear at what stage throughout the nine months that it takes hold. Out of every 1,000 children born, 8 to 10 have this condition.
Some babies show symptoms of congenital heart defects from the very beginning of their lives while other people will not show symptoms until later in their childhoods. In other cases, such a defect is not discovered until a person has become an adult. It is estimated that 500,000 American adults suffer from congenital heart disease.
Trying to discover the cause of congenital heart disease is not easy. Most of the time the cause of it is not known. Doctors and medical researchers have discovered factors that do seem to suggest an increased risk of developing this disease however. One of these risk factors is a chromosomal abnormality or a genetic abnormality such as Down syndrome. Women who drink alcohol, use drugs or take specific types of medication during the period of their pregnancy are more likely to give birth to children with congenital heart defects. When a woman contracts a maternal viral infection such as German measles (also known as rubella) during the first trimester of her pregnancy she is more likely to give birth to a child with this disease.
If someone in the family such as a parent, grandparent or brother or sister was born with a congenital heart defect then the risk of a child in the family being born with it is even higher. For example, the risk for the general population is eight in 1000 but it becomes 16 in 1000 for those who have a family member with it.
There is more than one type of congenital heart disease. Heart valve defects are very common and these are stenosis or narrowing of the heart valves or in severe cases, valves that are narrowed to the point that they do not allow blood through at all. Leaky valves also fall under the category of heart valve defects. Atrial and ventricular septal defects which are defects in the walls between the atria and ventricles of the heart cause some blood which is oxygenated and some blood which is not, to mix which can cause problems in both the right and left areas of the heart. Another type of congenital heart disease is abnormalities in the heart muscle, which can then cause heart failure.
Congenital heart disease can cause symptoms but often times there are no symptoms at all. Sometimes it is necessary to undergo medical tests to determine whether or not a person is afflicted with this disease. If symptoms do show themselves the two most common are shortness of breath and a decreased ability for exercise.
Congenital heart disease is a kind of malformation or heart defect that exists somewhere in the heart. In some cases it is a defect that can be found in one of the blood vessels of the heart. It is defined as congenital because the defect is present when a baby is born. It is strongly believed that these types of heart defects take place while the fetus is developing but it is not clear at what stage throughout the nine months that it takes hold. Out of every 1,000 children born, 8 to 10 have this condition.
Some babies show symptoms of congenital heart defects from the very beginning of their lives while other people will not show symptoms until later in their childhoods. In other cases, such a defect is not discovered until a person has become an adult. It is estimated that 500,000 American adults suffer from congenital heart disease.
Trying to discover the cause of congenital heart disease is not easy. Most of the time the cause of it is not known. Doctors and medical researchers have discovered factors that do seem to suggest an increased risk of developing this disease however. One of these risk factors is a chromosomal abnormality or a genetic abnormality such as Down syndrome. Women who drink alcohol, use drugs or take specific types of medication during the period of their pregnancy are more likely to give birth to children with congenital heart defects. When a woman contracts a maternal viral infection such as German measles (also known as rubella) during the first trimester of her pregnancy she is more likely to give birth to a child with this disease.
If someone in the family such as a parent, grandparent or brother or sister was born with a congenital heart defect then the risk of a child in the family being born with it is even higher. For example, the risk for the general population is eight in 1000 but it becomes 16 in 1000 for those who have a family member with it.
There is more than one type of congenital heart disease. Heart valve defects are very common and these are stenosis or narrowing of the heart valves or in severe cases, valves that are narrowed to the point that they do not allow blood through at all. Leaky valves also fall under the category of heart valve defects. Atrial and ventricular septal defects which are defects in the walls between the atria and ventricles of the heart cause some blood which is oxygenated and some blood which is not, to mix which can cause problems in both the right and left areas of the heart. Another type of congenital heart disease is abnormalities in the heart muscle, which can then cause heart failure.
Congenital heart disease can cause symptoms but often times there are no symptoms at all. Sometimes it is necessary to undergo medical tests to determine whether or not a person is afflicted with this disease. If symptoms do show themselves the two most common are shortness of breath and a decreased ability for exercise.
2007年12月22日星期六
Acuras 2007 TL-S
In the market for a new car thats both fun and high-performance?
Well, Acuras mid-range 2007 TL-S might just be the perfect car for you. Long been a favorite among car enthusiasts and considered to be Acuras coolest car since its 2004 redesign, the TL has been Acura's best-selling vehicle since then at roughly 76,000 U.S. units annually.
For 2007, the TL gets honed and sharpened, and if youre just the type who loves performance - the Type-S is out to butt heads with BMW's 3-Series and every other entry aspiring to be the best in the higher-performance market.
The standard TL comes with a 3.2-liter six that bangs out 258 horsepower. But in the S, standard power is a 3.5-liter V6 with 286 ponies and torque of 256 pound-feet at 5,000 rpm. Tie that to a six-speed close-ratio stick shift and all the perks of quality Acura parts, and the fun factor increases significantly.
The Type-S is will be offered with the options like summer tires and either the close-ratio manual or the quick-shifting manumatic. Its performance is strong, its grip fierce, its higher-effort steering quick and precise and its big four-piston Brembo brakes more than impressive. The Type-S could easily give the likes of the BMW 330i, Infiniti G35, and the Lexus IS 350 a run for its money.
As for the numbers, the Type-S's 11 percent stronger engine achieves its impressive numbers through an eight-percent boost in displacement (from 3.2 liters to 3.5 liters), thanks to a seven-millimeter longer stroke, slightly larger intake valves with increased lift and duration and 14-percent freer exhaust flow. The engine is also lighter thanks to the hollow camshafts and Acuras careful use of lightweight materials, which improves front-to-rear weight balance, and its double-wishbone front and multi-link rear suspensions are retuned with stiffer springs, dampers, and stabilizer bars to optimize both handling and stability.
Meanwhile the Type-S' exterior look is distinguished from the TL's by specific front and rear fascias with unique bumpers, black chrome trim, wider side sills, racing-inspired ten-spoke alloy wheels, and big quad-outlet tailpipes. Inside, the stunner of a vehicle gets terrific added-lateral-support sport seats, red ambient lighting, Type-S logos on the steering wheel and seatbacks, and Active Noise Cancellation (ANC). ANC uses microphones in the headliner to sense powertrain booming noises, which the car's sound then system "cancels" by generating synchronized opposite-amplitude sound waves.
Honda's luxury division plans to move some 70,000 Acura TLs this year in North America, at prices ranging from $34,000-$39,000, and believes about 40 percent will be Type-S models.
Home Improvement Catalogue
The morning starts out so well that you have no idea that it's all going go to pot within the next few hours. You get up as usual and grab you mug of coffee before going out to the deck to sit back and enjoy the early morning peace. Idly you leaf through the home improvement catalog that came in the mail yesterday and which was left on the table. When the phone call comes you have no idea that your world will very shortly be turned upside down on its face and that you're going to be stressed once again in your life.
Your partner comes outside to join you with a sheepish smile on his face. He then proceeds to give you the bad news. His parents have finally decided to take a vacation from their extended vacation traveling the globe and they'll be stopping by on their way home, for a few days only, but they definitely will be coming and sometime after next week.
You grip the home improvement catalog as it's your lifeline and paste a bright smile on your face. All you can do is think of all the house work which you had let slide for the past few months. Everything had probably accumulated to the point of your dust bunnies having little dust bunnies of their own. It wasn't that you didn't like your mother-in-law, or that she didn't like you, it was just that she had never thought you were good enough for her precious baby and made no bones about showing it to you.
However, that was neither here nor there as what really mattered now was getting the house into some semblance of order before they arrived next week. Sometime next week to be exact. Your gaze falls to the home improvement catalog which you've all but torn in your hands and almost fall over yourself when it finally registers what you have in your hand.
A snippet of an article you had seen in the home improvement catalog comes back to you and you start flipping madly through the pages to find it. You know you're really far gone when an absurd relief flows through you when you finally find it, but that's just how it is.
Clutching the home improvement catalog to you, you marshal your forces and go about following almost to the letter the home improvement tips and tricks which will get you through your period of stress. And this then is why home improvement catalogs were created to begin with and you have a subscription. To think, you were almost on the verge of canceling it too, thinking you didn't really need it!
Your partner comes outside to join you with a sheepish smile on his face. He then proceeds to give you the bad news. His parents have finally decided to take a vacation from their extended vacation traveling the globe and they'll be stopping by on their way home, for a few days only, but they definitely will be coming and sometime after next week.
You grip the home improvement catalog as it's your lifeline and paste a bright smile on your face. All you can do is think of all the house work which you had let slide for the past few months. Everything had probably accumulated to the point of your dust bunnies having little dust bunnies of their own. It wasn't that you didn't like your mother-in-law, or that she didn't like you, it was just that she had never thought you were good enough for her precious baby and made no bones about showing it to you.
However, that was neither here nor there as what really mattered now was getting the house into some semblance of order before they arrived next week. Sometime next week to be exact. Your gaze falls to the home improvement catalog which you've all but torn in your hands and almost fall over yourself when it finally registers what you have in your hand.
A snippet of an article you had seen in the home improvement catalog comes back to you and you start flipping madly through the pages to find it. You know you're really far gone when an absurd relief flows through you when you finally find it, but that's just how it is.
Clutching the home improvement catalog to you, you marshal your forces and go about following almost to the letter the home improvement tips and tricks which will get you through your period of stress. And this then is why home improvement catalogs were created to begin with and you have a subscription. To think, you were almost on the verge of canceling it too, thinking you didn't really need it!
Why Do Pets Have Bad Breath?
Pet owners probably agree that their cat or dog may not have the loveliest breath. Imagine how your mouth would smell if you did not brush your teeth for months at a time! Not a pleasant thought, is it? It is important to pay attention to the dental health of our pets, just as we take care of our own teeth, so we can try to prevent gum disease, tooth loss and other health problems.
The main reason that pets have bad breath (halitosis) is because they have gum disease. By age three, at least 80 percent of dogs and 70 percent of cats have some form of gum disease. Just because cats and dogs do not eat a diet filled with sugary or sticky foods, does not mean they would not accumulate tartar. Once food particles and bacteria collect along the gum line, plaque begins to form, in the same way it does on humans. Their owners can remove plaque for their pets. But once this sticky plaque adheres to the teeth, it turns into hard tartar within a week. Only a veterinarian can successfully remove this yellowish-brown tartar from the teeth of your pets.
Other reasons your pet may have bad breath are: (1) Eating smelly foods; (2) Diabetes; (3) Respiratory diseases; (4) Tonsillitis; (5) Gastrointestinal problems; and (6) Bacterial or viral infections.
If the tartar is not removed, the gums of your pet will begin to redden and swell with the first stage of gum disease (gingivitis) and you will notice their less-than-sweet breath. Your pet may also have problems chewing hard food, paw at their mouth or even seem depressed. If any of these symptoms appear, it is time to take action!
If nothing is done to relieve the symptoms of gingivitis, the health of your pets could deteriorate quickly. Their gums may pull away from the teeth, leaving pockets where bacteria can thrive. This can lead to tooth loss or abscesses. In some situations, the bacteria may enter the bloodstream, causing infections in heart valves, liver and kidneys.
Establishing a regular dental care program. Take your pet to the veterinarian. Upon examination, a vet may determine that teeth of your pets need to be cleaned. It is normal for cats and dogs to have cleanings once a year, some older pets may need twice yearly cleanings. Talk to your vet about the procedure and what is best for your pet.
Daily home care is required for your pets. One of the best ways to avoid bad breath and gum disease is to clean the teeth of the pets daily. You may think that your pet will never put up with having their teeth cleaned, but your pet can be trained to sit still long enough for it! Your vet can give you tips. Do not use your own toothpaste on your pet (as it could cause stomach problems). Special toothbrushes and toothpaste are available for pets. Talk to your vet to see which one they recommend.
Adequate nutrition helps. There are pet foods that are specifically aimed at reducing the risk of dental diseases. Avoid giving your pets sweet treats. Your cat may love ice-cream, and your dog may look forward to drinking the leftover milk in your cereal bowl, but the sugary satisfaction will harm their teeth!
Any abnormalities in the appearance or personality of your cat or dog should be reported to the vet. The problems may include: (1) Bad breath; (2) Swollen, red gums; (3) Tartar or lesions along the gum line; (4) Pain or bleeding when touching the gums; (5) Discolored teeth; (6) Bumps around or in the mouth; and (7) Losing weight, disinterest in food, or in activity.
The bottom line is this: You brush your teeth at least twice every day, and therefore, your pet should have his teeth cleaned every day too. He may not have minty-fresh breath, but at least you will be doing everything you can to keeping your pet healthy.
The main reason that pets have bad breath (halitosis) is because they have gum disease. By age three, at least 80 percent of dogs and 70 percent of cats have some form of gum disease. Just because cats and dogs do not eat a diet filled with sugary or sticky foods, does not mean they would not accumulate tartar. Once food particles and bacteria collect along the gum line, plaque begins to form, in the same way it does on humans. Their owners can remove plaque for their pets. But once this sticky plaque adheres to the teeth, it turns into hard tartar within a week. Only a veterinarian can successfully remove this yellowish-brown tartar from the teeth of your pets.
Other reasons your pet may have bad breath are: (1) Eating smelly foods; (2) Diabetes; (3) Respiratory diseases; (4) Tonsillitis; (5) Gastrointestinal problems; and (6) Bacterial or viral infections.
If the tartar is not removed, the gums of your pet will begin to redden and swell with the first stage of gum disease (gingivitis) and you will notice their less-than-sweet breath. Your pet may also have problems chewing hard food, paw at their mouth or even seem depressed. If any of these symptoms appear, it is time to take action!
If nothing is done to relieve the symptoms of gingivitis, the health of your pets could deteriorate quickly. Their gums may pull away from the teeth, leaving pockets where bacteria can thrive. This can lead to tooth loss or abscesses. In some situations, the bacteria may enter the bloodstream, causing infections in heart valves, liver and kidneys.
Establishing a regular dental care program. Take your pet to the veterinarian. Upon examination, a vet may determine that teeth of your pets need to be cleaned. It is normal for cats and dogs to have cleanings once a year, some older pets may need twice yearly cleanings. Talk to your vet about the procedure and what is best for your pet.
Daily home care is required for your pets. One of the best ways to avoid bad breath and gum disease is to clean the teeth of the pets daily. You may think that your pet will never put up with having their teeth cleaned, but your pet can be trained to sit still long enough for it! Your vet can give you tips. Do not use your own toothpaste on your pet (as it could cause stomach problems). Special toothbrushes and toothpaste are available for pets. Talk to your vet to see which one they recommend.
Adequate nutrition helps. There are pet foods that are specifically aimed at reducing the risk of dental diseases. Avoid giving your pets sweet treats. Your cat may love ice-cream, and your dog may look forward to drinking the leftover milk in your cereal bowl, but the sugary satisfaction will harm their teeth!
Any abnormalities in the appearance or personality of your cat or dog should be reported to the vet. The problems may include: (1) Bad breath; (2) Swollen, red gums; (3) Tartar or lesions along the gum line; (4) Pain or bleeding when touching the gums; (5) Discolored teeth; (6) Bumps around or in the mouth; and (7) Losing weight, disinterest in food, or in activity.
The bottom line is this: You brush your teeth at least twice every day, and therefore, your pet should have his teeth cleaned every day too. He may not have minty-fresh breath, but at least you will be doing everything you can to keeping your pet healthy.
Inside BMW: Recalls, Award-Winning Aviation Design, and the X5 SAV
BMW or Bayerische Motoren Werke AG, the producer of high quality BMW 528e parts will conduct a recall of 29,250 5 Series and 6 Series sedans and X5 sport-utility vehicles to fix a static electricity problem that can cause the V8 engines to stop. The said recall will affect 2006 and 2007 models that is, according to announcement made recently by the Washington-based National Highway Traffic Safety Administration published on its web site.
The reason for recall is due to the problem seen on the engines electronic control unit especially when temperatures are below freezing and humidity is low that is basing on the report given by NHTSA. Under those conditions, an electrostatic discharge can occur at pipes that deliver fuel to the engines injectors which cause the control unit to malfunction.
To solve this problem, dealers will attach grounding cables in the engine compartment free of charge according to the document released by NHSTA.
BMW Group Designworks USA a Leader in Aircraft Design
After creating two award-winning design solutions for business jets, the global design consultancy has created a further trendsetting design for Embraer.
The Brazilian manufacturer is currently one of the worlds largest aircraft companies. And at this years international aircraft show held last September 25 to 27 in Atlanta by the National Business Aviation Association, BMW Group Designworks USA caused quite a buzz with their revolutionary design of a medium range aircraft built by the Brazilian company Embraer.
This one-of-a-kind styling is a follow-up to the consultancys two outstanding and successful design solutions created for business applications namely jets Phenom 100 and 300 produced by Embraer. The other awards given for these designs include the infamous iF Product Design Award 2007.
X5 the SAV
BMW has created a unique combination of SUV functionality and BMW sportiness seven years ago with the X5. The German automaker calls the X5, SAV or short for Sports Activity Vehicle.
The X5 has become very popular that BMW thought of coming up with another version only this time, smaller in the form of the X3.
The X5 is equipped with an all-wheel-drive system called the xDrive. There are currently two X5 models that are offered to meet the ever-changing consumer market needs: the X5 3.0si, powered by 260 horsepower DOHC, in-line six-cylinder engine, and a 4.8i with motive power derived from a DOHC, 32-valve V8 motor that delivers 350 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are mated to specific six-speed automatic gearboxes with manual shift capability.
In terms of styling features the X5 has a noticeable hood contour, an integrated bumper/air-intake unit, traditional wider BMW kidneys that is set high, and headlamp clusters with inside luminous rings. Then on the later part of 2004, adaptive headlamps that steer around corners and curves were added. Similarly the xDrive all-wheel-drive system was also improved by adding a number of significant options.
The X5 at first glance is not that visibly different from its predecessors since it strives to maintain a traditional family resemblance but despite such fact it is all new made to seat up to seven passengers.
Learn about auto service from a real life story
Before we begin I would like to state that not all auto mechanics are bad. I have worked with some great honest technicians. But what about the bad ones that are out there, these mechanics are the one's to look out for. I knew an auto mechanic that kept a squeeze ketchup bottle filled with lightweight oil in his toolbox.
This auto mechanic would squirt it on shocks, struts around valve covers on master cylinders and what ever the auto mechanic felt like selling that day. The auto service advisor would bring the customer out and show them the wet spots and how important it was to have the repairs done today to avoid getting stuck somewhere.
You can protect yourself against this old auto service trick by performing a pre service trip inspection. I explain this in the next to last chapter of my new book a mechanics secrets. The end of the book covers the subject of learning about your car to help avoid scams and rip-offs. I teach you how to act like you know about cars even if you don't. But what else will the auto mechanic find wrong during your auto service visit.
Well since they are in the engine compartment they could not help but notice that you need belts and hoses replaced. First we will talk about belts. Most modern cars have one large belt called a serpentine belt. This one belt drives all the accessories like the alternator, water pump, a/c compressor and power steering pump. In the old days they would have 2 or 3 belts but now they have just one belt to do the job.
The down side is if the belt breaks you loose all your accessories. Your battery stops charging and you loose power assisted steering but worst of all your water pump stops turning. If you keep driving without this belt your engine could over heat because the water pump is not pushing the coolant through the engine. But to the auto mechanic, replacing the belt is a gravy job. The auto service shop and the mechanic will find this service Very easy and quick to do and could cost over $150.00 bucks.
Meaning a large profit with little effort. So you must be careful and ask some questions. When a serpentine belt is recommended for replacement ask why. If the answer is because it has cracks this may not be good enough. The industry formula for cracked belts is 10 light cracks per inch indicate the belt should be replaced. Light cracks spread out over the whole belt may mean the belt still has life left in it.
The cracks develop on the face of the belt or the ribbed side. The strength of the belt is on the back or smooth side of the belt. If the belt is frayed or damaged from hitting something ask the auto mechanic to show it to you and replace as needed. Use this rule of thumb when deciding to replace the belt. An average serpentine belt will last for about 50,000 miles or more.
So take a look at the belt and if you approve the replacement of the belt ask the auto mechanic for the old belt and through it in a bag and put it in your trunk for emergencies. It is always nice to have a spare for emergency use.
This auto mechanic would squirt it on shocks, struts around valve covers on master cylinders and what ever the auto mechanic felt like selling that day. The auto service advisor would bring the customer out and show them the wet spots and how important it was to have the repairs done today to avoid getting stuck somewhere.
You can protect yourself against this old auto service trick by performing a pre service trip inspection. I explain this in the next to last chapter of my new book a mechanics secrets. The end of the book covers the subject of learning about your car to help avoid scams and rip-offs. I teach you how to act like you know about cars even if you don't. But what else will the auto mechanic find wrong during your auto service visit.
Well since they are in the engine compartment they could not help but notice that you need belts and hoses replaced. First we will talk about belts. Most modern cars have one large belt called a serpentine belt. This one belt drives all the accessories like the alternator, water pump, a/c compressor and power steering pump. In the old days they would have 2 or 3 belts but now they have just one belt to do the job.
The down side is if the belt breaks you loose all your accessories. Your battery stops charging and you loose power assisted steering but worst of all your water pump stops turning. If you keep driving without this belt your engine could over heat because the water pump is not pushing the coolant through the engine. But to the auto mechanic, replacing the belt is a gravy job. The auto service shop and the mechanic will find this service Very easy and quick to do and could cost over $150.00 bucks.
Meaning a large profit with little effort. So you must be careful and ask some questions. When a serpentine belt is recommended for replacement ask why. If the answer is because it has cracks this may not be good enough. The industry formula for cracked belts is 10 light cracks per inch indicate the belt should be replaced. Light cracks spread out over the whole belt may mean the belt still has life left in it.
The cracks develop on the face of the belt or the ribbed side. The strength of the belt is on the back or smooth side of the belt. If the belt is frayed or damaged from hitting something ask the auto mechanic to show it to you and replace as needed. Use this rule of thumb when deciding to replace the belt. An average serpentine belt will last for about 50,000 miles or more.
So take a look at the belt and if you approve the replacement of the belt ask the auto mechanic for the old belt and through it in a bag and put it in your trunk for emergencies. It is always nice to have a spare for emergency use.
Gas Blowers
MECHANICAL VACUUM BOOSTERS:-
Mechanical Vacuum Boosters are dry pumps that meet most of the ideal vacuum pump requirements. They work on positive displacement principle and are used to boost the performance of water ring /oil ring /rotating vane /piston pumps and steam or water ejectors. They are used in combination with any one of the above mentioned pumps, to overcome their limitations. Vacuum booster pumps offer very desirable characteristics which make them the most cost effective and power efficient option.
The major advantages are:-
(a) Can be integrated with any installed vacuum system such as Steam Ejectors, Water Ring Pumps, Oil Sealed Pumps, Water Ejectors, etc.
(b) The vacuum booster is a Dry Pump as it does not use any pumping fluid. It pumps vapor or gases with equal ease. Small amounts of condensed fluid can also be pumped.
(c) Vacuum boosters are power efficient. Very often a combination of Vacuum Booster and suitable backup pump results in reduced power consumption per unit of pumping speed. They provide high pumping speeds even at low pressures.
(d) Boosters increase the working vacuum of the process, in most cases very essential for process
performance and efficiency. Vacuum Booster can be used over a wide working pressure range,
from 100 Torr down to 0.001 Torr (mm of mercury), with suitable arrangement of backup pumps.
Everest ...................... Leaders in Vacuum Booster Technology Boosters for Vacuum Process Everest Transmission January, 2005.
(e) It has very low pump friction losses, hence requires relatively low power for high volumetric
speeds. Typically, their speeds, at low vacuums are 20-30 times higher than corresponding vane
pumps / ring pumps of equivalent power.
(f) Use of electronic control devices such as Variable Frequency Control Drive allow to modify
vacuum boosters operating characteristics to conform to the operational requirements of the prime
vacuum pumps. Hence they can be easily integrated into all existing pumping set up to boost their
performance.
(g) Vacuum boosters don't have any valves, rings, stuffing box etc., therefore, do not demand regular maintenance.
(h) Due to vapor compression action by the booster, the pressure at the discharge of booster (or inlet of backup pump) is maintained high, resulting in advantages such as low back streaming of prime pump fluid, effective condensation even at higher condenser temperatures and improvement of the backup pump efficiency.
The Table below gives a rough estimate of how the boosters enhance the working vacuums of the processes when installed in combination with various types of industrial vacuum pumps currently used in the industry. They can effectively replace multistage steam ejectors, resulting in considerable steam savings and reduced loads on cooling towers. Mechanical Vacuum Boosters are versatile machines and their characteristics depend largely on backing pump. Various types of backing pump can be used, depending upon the system requirement and ultimate vacuum needs.
However, the final vacuum is governed by the suitable selection of the backing pump and booster
arrangement. The table below gives a broad range of vacuum achieved with various backing pumps combinations.
Vacuum Pump Expected vacuum Vacuum on installation Range of Booster (single stage)
Single Stage Ejector 150 Torr 15 - 30 Torr
Water Ejector 100 Torr 10 - 20 Torr
Water Ring Pump 40 - 60 Torr 5 - 10 Torr
Liquid Ring Pump 20 - 30 Torr 2 - 5 Torr
Piston Pumps 20 - 30 Torr 2 - 5 Torr
Rotary Piston Pumps 0.1 Torr 0.01 Torr
Rotary Vane Oil Pump 0.01 - 0.001 Torr 0.001 - 0.0001 Torr.
Everest ................ Leaders in Vacuum Booster Technology Boosters for Vacuum Process Everest Transmission January, 2005.
For example, if a process is using water ring Pump, the estimated working vacuums would be of the order of about 670-710 mmHg gauge (90-50 mmHg abs.), largely depending on the water temperature and pump design. When a Booster is installed prior to the water ring pump, in series, the vacuum levels of the order of 5-10 Torr can be easily achieved. In a Multi-Stage booster installation, vacuum levels of the order of 0.5 Torr & better can easily be expected. Mechanical Boosters offer a completely dry pumping solution and do not add to any vapor load, unlike steam ejectors, and therefore, do not require large inter stage condenses. At low vacuums, higher pumping speeds are required to maintain the through-put, since the specific volume increases with the increase in vacuum. Vacuum boosters enhance the pumping speeds by about 3-10 times depending upon the selection by virtue of which one can expect higher process rates and through-puts. The drawbacks of steam ejector system such as sensitivity to motive fluid pressures and discharge pressure are overcome easily by the Mechanical Boosters, since the volumetric displacements/pumping speeds are insensitive to the inlet & outlet working pressures.
Typical Booster Installation
(1) Evaporator (2) Gauge (3) Condenser (4) Mechanical Booster
(5) backup Pump
Everest ................. Leaders in Vacuum Booster Technology Boosters for Vacuum Process Everest Transmission January, 2005.
Calculating the Pump Capacity: -
Based on the fundamental gas laws PV= RT, an expression can be derived for Volumetric Flow Rates required for pumping different vapors/gases. Based on the Mass flow rates one can estimate the pump capacity required.
V = R . Tgas / P Q1/M1 + Q2/M2 ............. Qn/Mn
Where V = Inlet Volume flow rate m3/hr.
R = Universal gas Constant, 83.14 mbar m3/ Kgmol x K
Tgas = Gas/Vapor abs. Temp, in K
P = Process Absolute Pressure in mbar
Q1, Q2, Q3 = Gas / Vapor flow rate, in Kg/hr.
M1 , M2 ,M3 = Molar mass, in Kg/mol. of gas /vapor.
Booster Operation:
Power Constraints restrict the total differential pressures across the booster. This demands to ensure the total differential pressure across the Booster must not exceed the rated limits. This can be ensured by any of the following means:-
1.) Manual method:- Initially the fore pump is switched on until the required cut in pressure is achieved and there-after the booster is switched on.
2.) Auto method:- Installation of mechanical By-pass arrangement across the booster or hydro kinematic drive or Variable Frequency Drive (VFD). In this arrangement, the booster and fore pump can be started simultaneously from atmosphere.
Advantages of using Electronic Variable Speed Control Device
Electronic A.C Variable Frequency Control Drives are most preferred devices used to regulate the
Booster speed to match the varying load conditions of the process. These drives enhance the overall performance of the Boosters and offer various advantages for the trouble free operation.
The major advantages are: -
1. Booster can be started directly from atmosphere.
Everest ................... Leaders in Vacuum Booster Technology
Boosters for Vacuum Process Everest Transmission January, 2005.
2. No need for separate pressure switch, by pass line or offloading valves.
3. Considerable savings in power.
4. Prevents over-heating of Boosters.
5. Protects the Booster against overload and excessive pressures.
6. Offers complete protection to motor against over voltage, under voltage, over current,
Over-heating, ground fault.
7. Eliminates the needs of separate starter and overload relays for the Motor.
8. Automatically adjusts the speed of Booster between low and high range set giving high
pumping speeds with relatively low input power.
The Electronic Variable Frequency Control Drive is a microprocessor based electronic drive which is specially programmed to meet the demands of the Booster allowing it to operate directly from atmosphere along with suitable fore pump. Conventionally, Boosters can be started only after achieving fore vacuum in the range of 30 - 100 Torr, as they are not recommended for direct discharge into the atmosphere. Use of Pressure Switch, Hydro kinematic drive and by pass valves is necessary to prevent the overloading of the Booster. However with the installation of Electronic Variable Frequency Control Drive all the conventional methods can be bypassed since the drive is programmed to regulate the Booster speed automatically, keeping the load on motor within permissible limits. This allows the Booster to start simultaneously with backup pump. When the backup-pump and Booster are started the drive reduces the Booster speed to the pre-set levels and as the vacuum is created the Booster speed picks up, reaching the final pre-set speed, giving most optimum performance over the entire range. Since all the parameters are easily programmable, one can adjust the booster pumping speeds to match the system requirements easily and quickly. The drive limits the current to the motor and safeguards the motor against over voltage, under voltage, electronic thermal, overheat ground faults. i.e. protects the motor against all possible faults.
External computer control over all aspects of booster performance is possible via RS485 serial interface built into the drive electronics. This enables the Booster to be integrated into any computer-controlled operating system.
To know more about this site visit this site: http://www.everestblowers.com
Mechanical Vacuum Boosters are dry pumps that meet most of the ideal vacuum pump requirements. They work on positive displacement principle and are used to boost the performance of water ring /oil ring /rotating vane /piston pumps and steam or water ejectors. They are used in combination with any one of the above mentioned pumps, to overcome their limitations. Vacuum booster pumps offer very desirable characteristics which make them the most cost effective and power efficient option.
The major advantages are:-
(a) Can be integrated with any installed vacuum system such as Steam Ejectors, Water Ring Pumps, Oil Sealed Pumps, Water Ejectors, etc.
(b) The vacuum booster is a Dry Pump as it does not use any pumping fluid. It pumps vapor or gases with equal ease. Small amounts of condensed fluid can also be pumped.
(c) Vacuum boosters are power efficient. Very often a combination of Vacuum Booster and suitable backup pump results in reduced power consumption per unit of pumping speed. They provide high pumping speeds even at low pressures.
(d) Boosters increase the working vacuum of the process, in most cases very essential for process
performance and efficiency. Vacuum Booster can be used over a wide working pressure range,
from 100 Torr down to 0.001 Torr (mm of mercury), with suitable arrangement of backup pumps.
Everest ...................... Leaders in Vacuum Booster Technology Boosters for Vacuum Process Everest Transmission January, 2005.
(e) It has very low pump friction losses, hence requires relatively low power for high volumetric
speeds. Typically, their speeds, at low vacuums are 20-30 times higher than corresponding vane
pumps / ring pumps of equivalent power.
(f) Use of electronic control devices such as Variable Frequency Control Drive allow to modify
vacuum boosters operating characteristics to conform to the operational requirements of the prime
vacuum pumps. Hence they can be easily integrated into all existing pumping set up to boost their
performance.
(g) Vacuum boosters don't have any valves, rings, stuffing box etc., therefore, do not demand regular maintenance.
(h) Due to vapor compression action by the booster, the pressure at the discharge of booster (or inlet of backup pump) is maintained high, resulting in advantages such as low back streaming of prime pump fluid, effective condensation even at higher condenser temperatures and improvement of the backup pump efficiency.
The Table below gives a rough estimate of how the boosters enhance the working vacuums of the processes when installed in combination with various types of industrial vacuum pumps currently used in the industry. They can effectively replace multistage steam ejectors, resulting in considerable steam savings and reduced loads on cooling towers. Mechanical Vacuum Boosters are versatile machines and their characteristics depend largely on backing pump. Various types of backing pump can be used, depending upon the system requirement and ultimate vacuum needs.
However, the final vacuum is governed by the suitable selection of the backing pump and booster
arrangement. The table below gives a broad range of vacuum achieved with various backing pumps combinations.
Vacuum Pump Expected vacuum Vacuum on installation Range of Booster (single stage)
Single Stage Ejector 150 Torr 15 - 30 Torr
Water Ejector 100 Torr 10 - 20 Torr
Water Ring Pump 40 - 60 Torr 5 - 10 Torr
Liquid Ring Pump 20 - 30 Torr 2 - 5 Torr
Piston Pumps 20 - 30 Torr 2 - 5 Torr
Rotary Piston Pumps 0.1 Torr 0.01 Torr
Rotary Vane Oil Pump 0.01 - 0.001 Torr 0.001 - 0.0001 Torr.
Everest ................ Leaders in Vacuum Booster Technology Boosters for Vacuum Process Everest Transmission January, 2005.
For example, if a process is using water ring Pump, the estimated working vacuums would be of the order of about 670-710 mmHg gauge (90-50 mmHg abs.), largely depending on the water temperature and pump design. When a Booster is installed prior to the water ring pump, in series, the vacuum levels of the order of 5-10 Torr can be easily achieved. In a Multi-Stage booster installation, vacuum levels of the order of 0.5 Torr & better can easily be expected. Mechanical Boosters offer a completely dry pumping solution and do not add to any vapor load, unlike steam ejectors, and therefore, do not require large inter stage condenses. At low vacuums, higher pumping speeds are required to maintain the through-put, since the specific volume increases with the increase in vacuum. Vacuum boosters enhance the pumping speeds by about 3-10 times depending upon the selection by virtue of which one can expect higher process rates and through-puts. The drawbacks of steam ejector system such as sensitivity to motive fluid pressures and discharge pressure are overcome easily by the Mechanical Boosters, since the volumetric displacements/pumping speeds are insensitive to the inlet & outlet working pressures.
Typical Booster Installation
(1) Evaporator (2) Gauge (3) Condenser (4) Mechanical Booster
(5) backup Pump
Everest ................. Leaders in Vacuum Booster Technology Boosters for Vacuum Process Everest Transmission January, 2005.
Calculating the Pump Capacity: -
Based on the fundamental gas laws PV= RT, an expression can be derived for Volumetric Flow Rates required for pumping different vapors/gases. Based on the Mass flow rates one can estimate the pump capacity required.
V = R . Tgas / P Q1/M1 + Q2/M2 ............. Qn/Mn
Where V = Inlet Volume flow rate m3/hr.
R = Universal gas Constant, 83.14 mbar m3/ Kgmol x K
Tgas = Gas/Vapor abs. Temp, in K
P = Process Absolute Pressure in mbar
Q1, Q2, Q3 = Gas / Vapor flow rate, in Kg/hr.
M1 , M2 ,M3 = Molar mass, in Kg/mol. of gas /vapor.
Booster Operation:
Power Constraints restrict the total differential pressures across the booster. This demands to ensure the total differential pressure across the Booster must not exceed the rated limits. This can be ensured by any of the following means:-
1.) Manual method:- Initially the fore pump is switched on until the required cut in pressure is achieved and there-after the booster is switched on.
2.) Auto method:- Installation of mechanical By-pass arrangement across the booster or hydro kinematic drive or Variable Frequency Drive (VFD). In this arrangement, the booster and fore pump can be started simultaneously from atmosphere.
Advantages of using Electronic Variable Speed Control Device
Electronic A.C Variable Frequency Control Drives are most preferred devices used to regulate the
Booster speed to match the varying load conditions of the process. These drives enhance the overall performance of the Boosters and offer various advantages for the trouble free operation.
The major advantages are: -
1. Booster can be started directly from atmosphere.
Everest ................... Leaders in Vacuum Booster Technology
Boosters for Vacuum Process Everest Transmission January, 2005.
2. No need for separate pressure switch, by pass line or offloading valves.
3. Considerable savings in power.
4. Prevents over-heating of Boosters.
5. Protects the Booster against overload and excessive pressures.
6. Offers complete protection to motor against over voltage, under voltage, over current,
Over-heating, ground fault.
7. Eliminates the needs of separate starter and overload relays for the Motor.
8. Automatically adjusts the speed of Booster between low and high range set giving high
pumping speeds with relatively low input power.
The Electronic Variable Frequency Control Drive is a microprocessor based electronic drive which is specially programmed to meet the demands of the Booster allowing it to operate directly from atmosphere along with suitable fore pump. Conventionally, Boosters can be started only after achieving fore vacuum in the range of 30 - 100 Torr, as they are not recommended for direct discharge into the atmosphere. Use of Pressure Switch, Hydro kinematic drive and by pass valves is necessary to prevent the overloading of the Booster. However with the installation of Electronic Variable Frequency Control Drive all the conventional methods can be bypassed since the drive is programmed to regulate the Booster speed automatically, keeping the load on motor within permissible limits. This allows the Booster to start simultaneously with backup pump. When the backup-pump and Booster are started the drive reduces the Booster speed to the pre-set levels and as the vacuum is created the Booster speed picks up, reaching the final pre-set speed, giving most optimum performance over the entire range. Since all the parameters are easily programmable, one can adjust the booster pumping speeds to match the system requirements easily and quickly. The drive limits the current to the motor and safeguards the motor against over voltage, under voltage, electronic thermal, overheat ground faults. i.e. protects the motor against all possible faults.
External computer control over all aspects of booster performance is possible via RS485 serial interface built into the drive electronics. This enables the Booster to be integrated into any computer-controlled operating system.
To know more about this site visit this site: http://www.everestblowers.com
2007年12月21日星期五
Side Effects of Fen-Phen
Fen-phen is the combination of two drugs: fenfluramine (an appetite suppressant) and phentermine (a potent stimulant). Fen-phen never received approval from the Food and Drug Administration prior to their request that fenfluramine and the related compound, dexfenfluramine, be withdrawn from the market in late 1997.
The side effects of fen-phen can be represented in two categories: annoying, but relatively harmless, side effects that are encountered early on while using this combination of drugs, and serious medical complications that can arise sometime later and may be debilitating, require surgery or intensive medical treatment, and can even be fatal.
Less Harmful Fen-Phen Side Effects:
Each drug in the fen-phen combination has its own specific side effects which must be reviewed separately.
The most commonly encountered side effects of fenfluramine (Pondimin) alone included drowsiness, diarrhea and dry mouth. Less common side effects include blurred vision, chills, sweating, dizziness, confusion, incoordination, headache, drowsiness, anxiety, nervousness or tension, abdominal pain or nausea, uncomfortable or frequent urination, palpitations, low or high blood pressure, weakness or fatigue, increased or decreased libido (sex drive)and undesirable changes in mood (mood instability or depressive symptoms). It may also cause rash, eye irritation, muscle pain and a bad taste.
Phentermine is capable of producing dizziness, a rapid heart rate, blurred vision anxiety or restlessness, and tremor. Phentermine is habit forming (has abuse potential).
Medical Complications Caused by Fen-Phen:
The use of fenfluramine or dexfenfluramine alone, and the combination of fenfluramine with phentermine (fen-phen) have been associated with serious medical complications. They include valvular heart disease (damaged heart valves), Primary Pulmonary Hypertension (often referred to as PPH) and neuropsychological complications. Valvular heart disease has been associated with the use of these agents. Mild varieties can be managed with medication. More severe forms may require surgery to replace damaged valves.
The disorder generally involves the mitral and aortic valves. Primary Pulmonary Hypertension can also be treated with medications. This may alter the progression of the illness. Some patients require a heart-lung transplant. In some cases, Primary Pulmonary Hypertension can be fatal. The neuropsychological complications must be treated based upon the particular symptoms present which may include medications and/or complications.
Symptoms Related to Medical Complications:
Patients my experience dyspnea (shortness of breath), dizziness, weakness, fatigue, fainting spells, chest pain and edema (the collection of fluid, usually in the ankles). Neuropsychological symptoms include memory loss, changes in behavior, depression or mood swings, or psychosis (delusions, hallucinations or disorganized thoughts, speech or behavior).
The side effects of fen-phen can be represented in two categories: annoying, but relatively harmless, side effects that are encountered early on while using this combination of drugs, and serious medical complications that can arise sometime later and may be debilitating, require surgery or intensive medical treatment, and can even be fatal.
Less Harmful Fen-Phen Side Effects:
Each drug in the fen-phen combination has its own specific side effects which must be reviewed separately.
The most commonly encountered side effects of fenfluramine (Pondimin) alone included drowsiness, diarrhea and dry mouth. Less common side effects include blurred vision, chills, sweating, dizziness, confusion, incoordination, headache, drowsiness, anxiety, nervousness or tension, abdominal pain or nausea, uncomfortable or frequent urination, palpitations, low or high blood pressure, weakness or fatigue, increased or decreased libido (sex drive)and undesirable changes in mood (mood instability or depressive symptoms). It may also cause rash, eye irritation, muscle pain and a bad taste.
Phentermine is capable of producing dizziness, a rapid heart rate, blurred vision anxiety or restlessness, and tremor. Phentermine is habit forming (has abuse potential).
Medical Complications Caused by Fen-Phen:
The use of fenfluramine or dexfenfluramine alone, and the combination of fenfluramine with phentermine (fen-phen) have been associated with serious medical complications. They include valvular heart disease (damaged heart valves), Primary Pulmonary Hypertension (often referred to as PPH) and neuropsychological complications. Valvular heart disease has been associated with the use of these agents. Mild varieties can be managed with medication. More severe forms may require surgery to replace damaged valves.
The disorder generally involves the mitral and aortic valves. Primary Pulmonary Hypertension can also be treated with medications. This may alter the progression of the illness. Some patients require a heart-lung transplant. In some cases, Primary Pulmonary Hypertension can be fatal. The neuropsychological complications must be treated based upon the particular symptoms present which may include medications and/or complications.
Symptoms Related to Medical Complications:
Patients my experience dyspnea (shortness of breath), dizziness, weakness, fatigue, fainting spells, chest pain and edema (the collection of fluid, usually in the ankles). Neuropsychological symptoms include memory loss, changes in behavior, depression or mood swings, or psychosis (delusions, hallucinations or disorganized thoughts, speech or behavior).
Heart Valve Disease
The heart is one of the strongest muscles and arguable it is the most important organ in the human body. It is responsible for getting nutrients and oxygen throughout the body by way of the circulatory system. It is divided into two halves, called the atrium and the ventricle chambers. Between these two chambers are a set of valves that lets the blood flows in only one direction. Sometimes these valves become damaged and the person could suffer from some sort of heart valve disease. If left unchecked, this disease can lead to heart failure and even death.
The signs and symptoms of heart valve disease are very hard to determine since many of them are so mild and can be attributed to a number of different conditions including asthma, heartburn, heart attack, or sometimes even pregnancy. The always have a conversation with your medical professional concerning your thoughts and physical symptoms if you believe that you may have any type of heart related disease. Heart valve disease is a serious condition, and should never be self-diagnosed.
There are a few common symptoms of heart valve disease that you should watch out for. If you experience dizzy spells or faintness brought on by physical activity, shortness of breath, or chest pain while doing physical activity, or a blue color under your finger nails, or if your lips have a bluish tinge to them. These are all symptoms that you should to bring up to your doctors attention as soon as possible.
Often heart valve disease is caused by a malformation of the valves, diseases, bacterial infection, or a general weakness of the valves that separate the two chambers of the heart. These deformities can include narrowed valves, and leaking valves.
Narrowed valves that can lead to valve heart disease can be caused by a number of things. One cause of this condition is congenital abnormality, a condition at birth that if it is sever enough has given you problems your entire life. Another cause, one that can be prevented through diet exercise and perhaps medications is degeneration of the valve through atherosclerosis, or hardening of the blood vessels that sometimes occurs in old age. The heart valve can also be caused by damage from rheumatic fever or extensive calcification. Heart valve disease doesn't always cause a life and death situation, although it can lead to major complications with the heart.
Common Vitamins and over the counter products can help with Heart Valve Disease such as Copper, EPA, Garlic, Ginkgo, Iron, and Lycopene.
There is strong evidence that trace mineral Copper is vital to the tensile strength of the coronary blood vessels.
Studies of the Greenland Eskimos lack of heart attacks have show that Eico-Sapentaenoic Acid (EPA) lowers blood cholesterol considerably, even more than polyunsaturated fat does. It also triggers a major drop in triglycerides. Salmon Oil is one of the best known sources of natural EPA.
Garlic can counteract the usual result of high fats in the diet and to help reduce high blood pressure.
Ginkgo Plus supplies a comprehensive range of important nutrients needed for the proper functioning of the vascular system and for improving blood circulation to the brain.
Iron is an essential component of hemoglobin, the oxygen carrying substance in red blood cells. Iron is vital for the production of blood. It enhances the immune system. Iron also aids in growth and repair of both bone and tissue by helping the body produce collagen.
Lycopene is very powerful in quenching free radicals as is L-gultathione. Ultra Antioxidant allows cells to perform more efficiently with less oxygen, enabling sufficient oxygen to be utilized for the
cells and organs that specifically need it.
If you are at risk from Heart Valve Disease then find a good health care professional prior to starting any type of home treatment.
Always consult your doctor before using this information.
This Article is nutritional in nature and is not to be construed as medical advice.
The signs and symptoms of heart valve disease are very hard to determine since many of them are so mild and can be attributed to a number of different conditions including asthma, heartburn, heart attack, or sometimes even pregnancy. The always have a conversation with your medical professional concerning your thoughts and physical symptoms if you believe that you may have any type of heart related disease. Heart valve disease is a serious condition, and should never be self-diagnosed.
There are a few common symptoms of heart valve disease that you should watch out for. If you experience dizzy spells or faintness brought on by physical activity, shortness of breath, or chest pain while doing physical activity, or a blue color under your finger nails, or if your lips have a bluish tinge to them. These are all symptoms that you should to bring up to your doctors attention as soon as possible.
Often heart valve disease is caused by a malformation of the valves, diseases, bacterial infection, or a general weakness of the valves that separate the two chambers of the heart. These deformities can include narrowed valves, and leaking valves.
Narrowed valves that can lead to valve heart disease can be caused by a number of things. One cause of this condition is congenital abnormality, a condition at birth that if it is sever enough has given you problems your entire life. Another cause, one that can be prevented through diet exercise and perhaps medications is degeneration of the valve through atherosclerosis, or hardening of the blood vessels that sometimes occurs in old age. The heart valve can also be caused by damage from rheumatic fever or extensive calcification. Heart valve disease doesn't always cause a life and death situation, although it can lead to major complications with the heart.
Common Vitamins and over the counter products can help with Heart Valve Disease such as Copper, EPA, Garlic, Ginkgo, Iron, and Lycopene.
There is strong evidence that trace mineral Copper is vital to the tensile strength of the coronary blood vessels.
Studies of the Greenland Eskimos lack of heart attacks have show that Eico-Sapentaenoic Acid (EPA) lowers blood cholesterol considerably, even more than polyunsaturated fat does. It also triggers a major drop in triglycerides. Salmon Oil is one of the best known sources of natural EPA.
Garlic can counteract the usual result of high fats in the diet and to help reduce high blood pressure.
Ginkgo Plus supplies a comprehensive range of important nutrients needed for the proper functioning of the vascular system and for improving blood circulation to the brain.
Iron is an essential component of hemoglobin, the oxygen carrying substance in red blood cells. Iron is vital for the production of blood. It enhances the immune system. Iron also aids in growth and repair of both bone and tissue by helping the body produce collagen.
Lycopene is very powerful in quenching free radicals as is L-gultathione. Ultra Antioxidant allows cells to perform more efficiently with less oxygen, enabling sufficient oxygen to be utilized for the
cells and organs that specifically need it.
If you are at risk from Heart Valve Disease then find a good health care professional prior to starting any type of home treatment.
Always consult your doctor before using this information.
This Article is nutritional in nature and is not to be construed as medical advice.
2007年12月20日星期四
Increase your Vehicles Horsepower and Torque with Pontiac Power Programmer
With vintage vehicles, you need a good set of wrenches to add horsepower and torque. Automobiles today, which are computer-controlled, only need a small box of what you call a performance chip to boost their vehicles performance. The Pontiac Power Programmer (otherwise known as performance programmer) is a technological wonder by aftermarket companies primarily designed to raise the engine power. It operates on the idea of optimizing the ignition and fuel system of the vehicle to be able to bring out the best horsepower and torque possible. It works as a replacement for the Engine Control Unit or ECU which controls various aspects of an internal combustion engine's operation. While the simplest ECUs simply control the quantity of fuel injected in each cylinder, most advanced ECUs also control the ignition timing, variable valve timing, and control other peripherals. If there are significant aftermarket modifications made on a vehicle, a programmable ECU is required. Thus, aftermarket companies developed the Pontiac Power Programmer.
The ECU holds the engines lookup tables and Pontiac Power Programmer has a new set of look up table which may contain values that translates to higher fuel rates during a different driving condition. The people who manufactured this power programmer are not centered on the vehicles reliability, emission controls and mileage like the car manufacturers are. And because of that, they can use more aggressive settings in the fuel maps of the power programmer. Example of this would be, supplying more fuel while at full throttle and at every engine speed. The power programmer is a self-contained tuning computer because it does all the rest of the work after you have answered the series of Yes/No questions it makes. When you connect the power programmer to your vehicle, into the underdash diagnostic plug, its intelligent program will read your Vehicle Identification Number or VIN and will instantly recognize your powertrain. The VIN contains particular information on the engine, transmission and drive train and the Pontiac Power Programmer will decode it in order to come up with a program that is precisely tailored to your vehicle. After the tuning program has been selected, the power programmer automatically installs the program and allows you to access and reprogram the vehicle's computer to function properly with aftermarket components such as non-stock tire sizes and rear-end gear ratios. It reprograms your trucks computer to optimize the air/fuel ratio, remap the transmission shift points and increase the top speed of the limiter. Vehicles using power programmer can experience a varying gain of up to 1.5 to 6 MPG. Each power programmer has specific features that can enhance your vehicle, and everything is based on the type of vehicle you have.
It is important to note that there are power programmers that can not be used in certain states like California, or power programmer that can only be legally used for racing and off-roading but not for the highway. Also, it should be noted that fueling with E85 is not recommended in conjunction with some power programmer. This is because burning E85 reduces efficiency and power compared to using gas, which nullifies the effect of the power programmer.
2007年12月19日星期三
What is Heart Disease?
The term heart disease is a very broad term. Problems can arise within the heart muscle, arteries supplying blood to the heart muscle, or the valves within the heart that pump blood in the correct direction. Understanding the differences between each disease of the heart can help with the confusing applications of the term heart disease.
Coronary artery disease or CAD is the most common type of heart disease and the leading cause of death in both genders in the U.S. Coronary artery disease affects the arteries supplying blood to the heart muscle. These coronary arteries harden and narrow due to the buildup of a waxy cholesterol, fatty substance referred to as plaque.
This plaque buildup is known as atherosclerosis. The increase in plaque buildup causes the coronary arteries to become narrower. This will cause blood flow to become restricted, decreasing the amount of oxygen delivered to the heart muscle. Decreasing the amount of oxygen supplied to the heart muscle can cause angina (chest pain) and lead to a heart attack. Coronary artery disease over time can weaken the heart muscle contributing to heart failure and arrhythmias (abnormal heart rhythms).
Coronary heart disease is another confusing type of heart disease. Coronary heart disease is not the same thing as coronary artery disease. While coronary artery disease refers to the coronary arteries, coronary heart disease refers to the diseases of the coronary arteries and resulting complications. This includes such complications such as chest pain, a heart attack, and the scar tissue caused by the heart attack. Understanding this subtle difference between the two may impress your cardiologist.
Cardiomyopathy is a disease affecting the muscle of the heart. Cardiomyopathy can be genetic or caused by a viral infection. Cardiomyopathy can be classified as primary or secondary. Primary cardiomyopathy is attributed to a specific cause (hypertension, congenital heart defects, heart valve disease). Secondary cardiomyopathy is attributed to specific causes (diseases affecting other organs).
There are three main types of cardiomyopathy. Dilated cardiomyopathy is enlargement and stretching of the cardiac muscle. Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy causes thickening of the heart muscle. Restrictive cardiomyopathy causes the ventricles of the heart to become excessively rigid causing blood flow to the ventricles to be difficult between heartbeats.
Valvular heart disease is a disease that affects the valves of the heart. Valves within the heart keep the blood flowing in the correct direction. Damage to valves can be caused by a variety of conditions leading to regurgitation or insufficiency (leaking valve), prolapse (improper closing of the valve), or stenosis (narrowing of the valve). Valvular heart disease can be genetic. Valvular heart disease can also be caused by certain infections such as rheumatic fever, and certain medications or radiation treatments for cancer.
The pericardium is a sac that encompasses the heart. Pericardial disease is inflammation (pericarditis), stiffness (constrictive pericarditis), or fluid accumulation (pericardial effusion) of the pericardium. Pericardial disease can be caused by many things such as occurring after a heart attack.
Congenital heart disease is a form of heart disease that develops before birth. Congenital heart disease is an extremely broad term. However, these diseases usually affect the formation of the heart muscle, chambers, or valves.
A few examples include coarctation or a narrowing of a section of the aorta; atrial or ventricular septal defect is referred to as holes in the heart. Congenital heart disease should be classified more accurately as an inborn defect that occurs in around 1% of births. Congenital heart disease may be inherited (heredity), or caused by certain infections such as German measles contracted while pregnant. However, researchers are currently studying factors that may cause congenital heart disease.
Heart failure is another type of heart disease characterized by the hearts inability to effectively pump enough blood to the bodys organs and tissues. When the bodys vital organs do not receive enough blood flow certain signs and symptoms can occur such as shortness of breath, fatigue, and fluid retention. Congestive heart failure is a type of heart failure that leads to fluid buildup in the body. It is important to note that not all heart failure is congestive. Heart failure may result from other cardiovascular diseases such as cardiomyopathy or coronary heart disease. Heart failure may come on suddenly or develop over many years.
The month of February is the National Heart Disease awareness month. However, heart disease awareness should be each and every day. With staggering statistics, awareness begins with understanding the different types of heart disease. A diet and lifestyle that is conducive to heart health can mean the difference between life and being a statistic.
Coronary artery disease or CAD is the most common type of heart disease and the leading cause of death in both genders in the U.S. Coronary artery disease affects the arteries supplying blood to the heart muscle. These coronary arteries harden and narrow due to the buildup of a waxy cholesterol, fatty substance referred to as plaque.
This plaque buildup is known as atherosclerosis. The increase in plaque buildup causes the coronary arteries to become narrower. This will cause blood flow to become restricted, decreasing the amount of oxygen delivered to the heart muscle. Decreasing the amount of oxygen supplied to the heart muscle can cause angina (chest pain) and lead to a heart attack. Coronary artery disease over time can weaken the heart muscle contributing to heart failure and arrhythmias (abnormal heart rhythms).
Coronary heart disease is another confusing type of heart disease. Coronary heart disease is not the same thing as coronary artery disease. While coronary artery disease refers to the coronary arteries, coronary heart disease refers to the diseases of the coronary arteries and resulting complications. This includes such complications such as chest pain, a heart attack, and the scar tissue caused by the heart attack. Understanding this subtle difference between the two may impress your cardiologist.
Cardiomyopathy is a disease affecting the muscle of the heart. Cardiomyopathy can be genetic or caused by a viral infection. Cardiomyopathy can be classified as primary or secondary. Primary cardiomyopathy is attributed to a specific cause (hypertension, congenital heart defects, heart valve disease). Secondary cardiomyopathy is attributed to specific causes (diseases affecting other organs).
There are three main types of cardiomyopathy. Dilated cardiomyopathy is enlargement and stretching of the cardiac muscle. Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy causes thickening of the heart muscle. Restrictive cardiomyopathy causes the ventricles of the heart to become excessively rigid causing blood flow to the ventricles to be difficult between heartbeats.
Valvular heart disease is a disease that affects the valves of the heart. Valves within the heart keep the blood flowing in the correct direction. Damage to valves can be caused by a variety of conditions leading to regurgitation or insufficiency (leaking valve), prolapse (improper closing of the valve), or stenosis (narrowing of the valve). Valvular heart disease can be genetic. Valvular heart disease can also be caused by certain infections such as rheumatic fever, and certain medications or radiation treatments for cancer.
The pericardium is a sac that encompasses the heart. Pericardial disease is inflammation (pericarditis), stiffness (constrictive pericarditis), or fluid accumulation (pericardial effusion) of the pericardium. Pericardial disease can be caused by many things such as occurring after a heart attack.
Congenital heart disease is a form of heart disease that develops before birth. Congenital heart disease is an extremely broad term. However, these diseases usually affect the formation of the heart muscle, chambers, or valves.
A few examples include coarctation or a narrowing of a section of the aorta; atrial or ventricular septal defect is referred to as holes in the heart. Congenital heart disease should be classified more accurately as an inborn defect that occurs in around 1% of births. Congenital heart disease may be inherited (heredity), or caused by certain infections such as German measles contracted while pregnant. However, researchers are currently studying factors that may cause congenital heart disease.
Heart failure is another type of heart disease characterized by the hearts inability to effectively pump enough blood to the bodys organs and tissues. When the bodys vital organs do not receive enough blood flow certain signs and symptoms can occur such as shortness of breath, fatigue, and fluid retention. Congestive heart failure is a type of heart failure that leads to fluid buildup in the body. It is important to note that not all heart failure is congestive. Heart failure may result from other cardiovascular diseases such as cardiomyopathy or coronary heart disease. Heart failure may come on suddenly or develop over many years.
The month of February is the National Heart Disease awareness month. However, heart disease awareness should be each and every day. With staggering statistics, awareness begins with understanding the different types of heart disease. A diet and lifestyle that is conducive to heart health can mean the difference between life and being a statistic.
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