Tuesday, August 25, 2020
Focus On Learner Pronunciation Problems Essay
In Portuguese, R toward the start of words, toward the finish of words, or before a consonant is articulated like H. Numerous Brazilian understudies convey this propensity into English words, articulating ââ¬Å"restaurantâ⬠as ââ¬Å"hestaurantâ⬠and ââ¬Å"farâ⬠as ââ¬Å"fah.â⬠Itââ¬â¢s particularly basic when the English word and the Portuguese word are comparable, for example, in ââ¬Å"restaurantâ⬠and ââ¬Å"regular.â⬠SOLUTION: First, I have my understudies take a shot at articulating the English R sound without anyone else. I show the right mouth position and they mimic me. At that point, we take a shot at each word while misrepresenting the R sound â⬠so we state rrrrememberrrr, for instance. At last, we work on making that overstated R sound shorter and shorter until the understudy becomes acclimated to stating recall with an English R. It feels somewhat crazy, however it works! Issue: Similar words Luckily, Portuguese and English have a great deal of genuine cognates â⬠words that are comparative in the two dialects, for example, territory, creature, culture, celebrated, music, sentimental, cheeseburger, and sports. This makes it simpler to recollect the jargon â⬠yet increasingly hard to make sure to articulate the words ââ¬Å"the English way.â⬠SOLUTION: To show the distinction in the sounds, I make correlations with words that they definitely know and articulate well in English â⬠ââ¬Å"The ââ¬Ëaââ¬â¢ in creature resembles the ââ¬Ëaââ¬â¢ in and,â⬠for instance. I likewise cause to notice syllable pressure â⬠well known in English versus well known in Portuguese. Issue: Final consonants Portuguese doesnââ¬â¢t have letters like D, T, G, P, and K toward the finish of words, so itââ¬â¢s normal for Brazilian understudies to unintentionally include a little vowel sound toward the finish of English words â⬠so large seems like bigg-ee and stop becomes stopp-ee. One of the most popular is troublesome transforming into trouble â⬠which is additionally an English word, yet the main is a descriptor and the second is a thing. Arrangement: I start with words finishing off with P on the grounds that theyââ¬â¢re the most effortless to rehearse â⬠we work on saying ââ¬Å"stop,â⬠ââ¬Å"help,â⬠and others, and I instruct them to keep their lips together for a second toward the end, at that point ââ¬Å"releaseâ⬠them without making an additional sound. At that point we proceed onward to ââ¬Å"rock,â⬠ââ¬Å"get,â⬠ââ¬Å"thing,â⬠ââ¬Å"good,â⬠, etc, once more, ââ¬Å"holdingâ⬠the last consonant for a second before ââ¬Å "releasingâ⬠it soundlessly.
Saturday, August 22, 2020
Jonathan Livingston Seagull Essay
Like Starsky and Hutch, Jaws and flared pants, Jonathan Livingston Seagull was one of the hits of the 1970s. It was even made into a film. However, what precisely is this book, and is it still worth perusing? Bachââ¬â¢s hit is an elevating tale of a seagull, Jonathan, who concludes he is substantially more than only a seagull, who needs something different out of life. It comprises of less than 100 pages, remembering numerous marvelous photos of gulls for activity. The book is presently an image of the other option or New Age otherworldliness that rose right now â⬠yet the same number of have noted, Jonathanââ¬â¢s involvement with the story is a purposeful anecdote for the life of Jesus Christ. Flying into the obscure Jonathan is diverse to different winged creatures in his rush: ââ¬Å"For most gulls, it isn't flying that issues, yet eating. For this gull, however, it was not eating that made a difference, yet flight.â⬠His dad discloses to him that ââ¬Å"The reason you fly is to eatâ⬠, and that flying for it isn't finished. All things considered, Jonathan goes through his days exploring different avenues regarding rapid plunges and flying low over the water. He needs to push his cutoff points, to discover what is conceivable. Frequently, it finishes in frantic disappointment. He surrenders to simply being a piece of the group, doing things the manner in which they had consistently been finished. In any case, one day he attempts a jump, and can quicken to a hundred and forty miles for every hour, ââ¬Å"a dark cannonball under the moonâ⬠. The following day, he goes even past this, more than 200 miles for each hour, the quickest a gull had ever flown. In his festival Jonathan flies down from the statures and flies directly through his own herd, fortunately not slaughtering anybody. He understands he has taken his species to another level. When he instructs them what he knows, he figures, they will no longer have a worn out existence of moving between different angling boats, getting fish goes to endure. He will show them a more elevated level of presence. Virtuoso exiled However the following day, Jonathan is gathered to remain before the gull Council. For his ââ¬Ëreckless irresponsibilityââ¬â¢ he is disgraced and exiled from the group. He is told he doesn't comprehend the reason for gull life â⬠to eat to remain alive as far as might be feasible. Out at the Far Cliffs, Jonathan goes through his days alone, pitiful less for himself however for the conceivable outcomes the group has rejected. For all the time he is finding better approaches to get things done. From his flying examinations he finds that a controlled fast jump into the water can improve tasting fish which swim some separation beneath the surface. Amusingly, his affection for flying itself has lead to a bounty of food. Jonathan later meets a gathering of further developed gulls, gulls like him who fly for it. They bring him into another measurement, a kind of paradise for gulls, and he is informed that he is a one out of many gull, since he has taken in the exercise of life: tha t it isn't simply to ââ¬Ëget throughââ¬â¢ however to look for your own flawlessness here and there. Most gulls need to experience a thousand lives before they understand this. In the authorââ¬â¢s words: ââ¬Å"We pick our next world through what we realize in this one. Get the hang of nothing, and the following scene is equivalent to this one, no different restrictions and lead loads to overcome.â⬠We should look for our own flawlessness; this is the purpose behind living. Last word It may take just thirty minutes to peruse, yet Jonathan Livingston Seagullcan clear the brain and lift the sights, similar to a stroll on the sea shore taking in the salty air. It is simple now, 35 years on, to ignore the creativity of the bookââ¬â¢s idea, and however some discover it rather naã ¯ve, in truth it communicates ageless thoughts regarding human potential. At the point when you go to the shoreline you see gulls continually quarreling about a solitary french fry or a bread outside, and think, ââ¬ËHow they quarrel about nothing!ââ¬â¢ Yet this book gives us that a great many people resemble the gulls in Jonathanââ¬â¢s group: in the event that they just escaped their limited mentalities they would acknowledge what wealth anticipated them. Like the British traveler of a similar name, Jonathan Livingston realizes that ââ¬Å"The gull sees most remote who flies highestâ⬠. On the off chance that considering enormous changes throughout your life, this book may ro use the certainty you need. it trains us to would what you like to do overlooking what others will consider you.. in any case, we should full heartedly practice to accomplish our fantasy simply like Jonathon Livingston ,each time he practice he comes to know the misstep in his fly needs flawlessness so he goes through days and evenings becoming familiar with the speed and flight. Thatââ¬â¢s all I needed to reply.. The primary exercise that got evident to me was the exercise of how to live unreservedly. To have the option to live the manner in which you need and not thinking about the assessments of others. This appears to me to be the most significant exercise I have gained from this book, on the grounds that despite the fact that this might be the hardest exercise to tail I trust it gives you the best fulfillment. I have learned as of late that by simply following the ââ¬Å"flockâ⬠you can make yourself be frustrated, yet by following your own heart you can astound yourself with respect to how cheerful you can be. Beginning now and proceeding into the future I intend to live by my own qualities and not be embarrassed on the off chance that I think uniquely in contrast to the remainder of my friends. To genuinely live uninhibitedly however, it is inescapable that some intense decisions should be made and that is the second exercise I accomplished from the book. For the duration of our li ves we will be confronted with decisions and it is our choice to either pick the way that will leave us alone genuinely and openly upbeat or the way that others figure we ought to follow. Applying this to my own life might be somewhat hard from the start since it is consistently hard to run contrary to the natural order of things however I feel that after some time by continuously settling on appropriate decisions for myself I could at long last arrive at my actual joy. Another exercise that influenced me was the means by which we have to challenge our own constraining self-convictions. From the time we are conceived we are determined what is correct, what's going on, and what to accept.
Sunday, August 9, 2020
How Many People Drink Alcohol in the U.S.
How Many People Drink Alcohol in the U.S. Addiction Alcohol Use Print Statistics on Alcohol Use in the U.S. Alcohol Use Data From the National Survey on Drug Use and Health By Buddy T facebook twitter Buddy T is an anonymous writer and founding member of the Online Al-Anon Outreach Committee with decades of experience writing about alcoholism. Learn about our editorial policy Buddy T Medically reviewed by Medically reviewed by Steven Gans, MD on December 13, 2015 Steven Gans, MD is board-certified in psychiatry and is an active supervisor, teacher, and mentor at Massachusetts General Hospital. Learn about our Medical Review Board Steven Gans, MD Updated on February 23, 2020 Inti St Clair / Getty Images More in Addiction Alcohol Use Binge Drinking Withdrawal and Relapse Children of Alcoholics Drunk Driving Addictive Behaviors Drug Use Nicotine Use Coping and Recovery The National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) is an annual survey of nearly 270,000 people aged 12 or older, which compiles data about alcohol and drug use.?? According to the 2016 national survey results, 50.7 percent of those surveyed said that they drank alcohol in the 30 days prior to the survey, and were defined as current alcohol drinkers. NSDUH is directed by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), an agency in the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS). The number of people who were current alcohol users in the 2016 survey was slightly decreased from the 51.7 percent of surveyed participants in 2015. The survey also provides statistics regarding drinking habits and different drinking rates based on age groups and gender. Statistics From NSDUH 2016 The 2016 NSDUH survey asked participants whether they had consumed alcohol at any point during their lifetime, whether they drank over the past year, the past 30 days, and whether they had episodes of heavy drinking or binge drinking. Overall Alcohol Use Of the people surveyed, 80.2 percent reported that they had consumed alcohol at some time during their lifetime, and 64.8 percent said they had consumed some alcohol in the past 12 months. Binge Drinking and Heavy Drinking For the purposes of the NSDUH survey, binge drinking was defined as five or more drinks for males, and four or more drinks for females on the same occasion on at least one day in the past 30 days. Heavy alcohol use was defined as drinking five or more drinks for males, and four or more drinks for females on the same occasion on each of five or more days in the past 30 days. Because of these definitions, all heavy alcohol users reported in NSDUH statistics are also binge drinkers. Results: Among the 50.7 percent of current drinkers in 2016, 47.8 percent reported binge drinking in the past month, and another 11.9 percent reported heavy drinking in the past 30 days. Estimated Drinkers by Age Group The survey estimated current drinkers, binge drinkers, and heavy drinkers based on age groups, including individuals who are not legally permitted to drink alcohol. Current alcohol users were defined as those who drank alcohol in the past 30 days. The percentage of adolescents aged 12 to 17 who were current alcohol users was 9.2 percent, and 57.1 percent of young adults aged 18 to 25 were current alcohol users, while 54.6 percent of adults aged 26 or older were current alcohol users. The study included more detailed information, which showed rising rates of alcohol consumption throughout adolescence and adulthood, followed by a decrease after age 25. How Many People Are Alcoholics in the United States? The following is a list of overall respondents who were current drinkers, binge drinkers, or heavy drinkers. Ages 12-13 Current Drinkers: 1.4 percent (113 survey respondents)Binge Drinkers: 0.3 percent (26 survey respondents)Heavy Drinkers: 0.0 percent (3 survey respondents) Ages 14-15 Current Drinkers: 7.9 percent (682 survey respondents)Binge Drinkers: 3.7 percent (322 survey respondents)Heavy Drinkers: 0.5 percent (47 survey respondents) Ages 16-17 Current Drinkers: 17.7 percent (1,494 survey respondents)Binge Drinkers: 10.2 percent (866 survey respondents)Heavy Drinkers: 1.7 percent (141 survey respondents) Ages 18-20 Current Drinkers: 39.1 percent (4,979 survey respondents)Binge Drinkers: 26.2 percent (3,327 survey respondents)Heavy Drinkers: 6.9 percent (878 survey respondents) According to the survey, 19.3 percent of respondents between ages 12 to 20 were drinkers. The rate of binge drinking was 62.5 percent among alcohol drinkers between the ages of 12 and 20, while 14.7 percent of alcohol users in that age group were heavy drinkers. The drinking rates were higher among adults who can drink alcohol legally than they were among adolescents who cannot drink legally. Ages 21-25 Current Drinkers: 67.6 percent (14,775 survey respondents)Binge Drinkers: 45.4 percent (9,931 survey respondents)Heavy Drinkers: 12.0 percent (2,622 survey respondents) Ages 26-34 Current Drinkers: 64.1 percent (24,875 survey respondents)Binge Drinkers: 37.2 percent (14,446 survey respondents)Heavy Drinkers: 9.4 percent (3,651 survey respondents) Ages 35 and Older Current Drinkers: 52.5 percent (89,817 survey respondents)Binge Drinkers: 21.3 percent (36,408 survey respondents)Heavy Drinkers: 5.2 percent (8,947 survey respondents) Estimated Current Drinkers by Gender There were some differences noted in the rates of alcohol consumption when comparing males and females, with males having higher alcohol use, binge drinking and heavy drinking. Males Ages 12 and Over Current Drinkers: 55.3 percent (72,286 survey respondents)Binge Drinkers: 28.9 percent (37,789 survey respondents)Heavy Drinkers: 8.3 percent (10,894 survey respondents) Females Ages 12 and Over Current Drinkers: 46.4 percent (64,449 survey respondents)Binge Drinkers: 19.8 percent (27,538 survey respondents)Heavy Drinkers: 3.9 percent (5,394 survey respondents) Why Alcohol and Drugs Are Factor in a Large Percentage of Crimes
Saturday, May 23, 2020
Legal Prostitution in the United States Essay - 1086 Words
It is rather odd to think that prostitution, which is considered to be the worldââ¬â¢s oldest profession, would be illegal and harmful in nature. The issue of legalizing prostitution has entered public conversation around the world, which is severely divided. Many, like myself, consider prostitution to be a victimless crime. Despite such opposition to legalizing prostitution, many argue that legalizing it would result in decreased morality issues, increase the economic activity in the United States, and help decrease the number of sexually transmitted diseases among both prostitutes and those who patronize them, The most common argument against the legalization of prostitution is that it establishes sexual immorality. The prostitute,â⬠¦show more contentâ⬠¦The United States nor virtually any other country has ever been plagued with the problem of too little population growth, also it is not a threat to institution of family. What is left of the moralist argument is that p rostitution is wrong morally, only by the religious faith. This point cannot be logically rejected; it must simply be accepted or rejected as an assertive statement. Given that prostitution will continue to flourish in the United States, there are many people who do not accept the religious disapproval and many more who are not willing to pay for the enforcement of these religious rules. Another argument to legalize prostitution would to be to regulated it, and take the woman off the street and place her into a safe environment, for instance: women who are in brothels in Nevada are screened monthly for STDââ¬â¢s and are given birth control. Sexually transmitted diseases are a major concern for the women as well as the men and should be a major reason why legalization of prostitution should be pushed. Legalized prostitution has shown that prostitutes who work in brothels practice safe sex and are less likely to contract and transmit STDs. As indicated in the article entitled, Prostitution: George Flint, director of the Nevada Brothel Association, points with pride to the 20,000 monthly AIDS tests that have been performed on legal prostitutes since tests were required in 1986, with HIV showing up only among job applicants. Similarly, not aShow MoreRelatedShould Prostitution Be Legalized?1406 Words à |à 6 PagesProstitution is one of the largest controversial issu e facing the United States. The definition of prostitution, according to Merriam-Websterââ¬â¢s Dictionary, is the act or practice of engaging in sexual relations especially for the money. Prostitution has been constantly bashed by the media and is currently legal in only one state. In this state, only one county has banned prostitution. Why is it illegal? What is wrong with prostitution that has made it illegal? These are the important questions thatRead MoreShould Prostitution Be Legalized?1663 Words à |à 7 PagesDecriminalizing prostitution in the United States will be a hazard to the nation. Prostitution has been often called one of the oldest jobs in the world. However, it has been illegal in nearly all societies throughout history. Currently, there have been various countries where prostitution has been legalized by the government, allowing people over eighteen year olds to work as prostitutes legally. Nonetheless, those countries have had several negative effects follow ing the legalization of prostitution. NeverthelessRead MoreA Crime Against Public Morals1474 Words à |à 6 Pagesof the separation between church and state, of the times we live in. This day and age, many people wish to be free from government and church influence. The United States is the land of the free and the home of the brave as the song says, then why are there some many laws of control. The moral laws on the books are for public interest only many are not really even enforced. The one law I can justly say that the government really should remove is Prostitution is one of the oldest professions in theRead MoreProstitution : A Dangerous And Degrading Profession1209 Words à |à 5 PagesThe topic of prostitution has been widely debated across history. While many see working as a prostitute as a viable career option and a right that all legal consenting adults should have, many other see it as a dangerous and degrading profession that creates both a sexualized and crime-breed ing environment. The governments of Scotland, the United Kingdom, and the United States have all generally taken stances that address prostitution in strict manner. While the approaches by which the US, the UKRead MoreProstitution And Its Effect On Public Health Essay1495 Words à |à 6 PagesProstitution is defined as ââ¬Å"the practice or occupation of engaging in sexual activity with someone for payment.â⬠It is commonly referred to in the media and among society as the ââ¬Å"oldest profession in the bookâ⬠. This is easily explained by the ancient references that are present in religious tales of the Old Testament in the bible to modern day ââ¬Å"red light districtsâ⬠across the United States. Prostitution and its legality have always stirred up a mixture of emotions across countries, cultures andRead MoreProstitution in America1528 Words à |à 7 PagesIntroduction In the United States prostitution for the most part is illegal. Around the world though is practically the opposite. Why is prostitution so unacceptable in the US? The US is one of the few countries in the world where prostitution is illegal. When I say for the most part I mean that in some counties in Nevada prostitution is legal. Downfalls of Legal Prostitution Prostitution is legal (with some restrictions) in Canada, most all of Europe including England, France, WalesRead MoreShould Prostitution be Legalized?1658 Words à |à 7 PagesProstitution is an issue that has been debated in many countries. 22 countries have legalized prostitution. In the United States, prostitution is only legal in 11 rural counties in Nevada. It used to be legal in Rhode Island due to a loophole, but since 2009, it has been illegal. Women are not the only ones who are prostitutes, about 20 to 30% of prostitutes are male, which means both genders are affected by laws against prostitution. Men and women should be allowed to choose how they want to useRead More Prostitution Should be Legalized Essay560 Words à |à 3 PagesProstitution Should be Legalized I think that prostitution should be legalized because it is no different than any other service that we pay to receive. Besides, there are far more serious crimes that require the full attention of our police force than prostitution; therefore, policing it is a costly waste of time and police resources. Furthermore, prostitution is already legal in Singapore, Denmark, and a part of the United States as well. In this Essay, I will discuss these ideas;Read MoreDeviant Behavior : Social, Psychological, And Philosophical Perspective1521 Words à |à 7 PagesTaylor 3). Prostitution, commonly yet mistakenly known as the oldest profession in the world, is a behavior that many individuals around the world find deviant. Essentially, prostitution is the exchange of sexual activities for payments, generally of a monetary value (Thio et. al., 227) For the most part, prostitution is a legal activity around the world. Only a few outliers, such as the United States, consider prostitut ion as an unlawful behavior. In the following essay, prostitution will be examinedRead MoreRegulation of Oldest Profession Essay1243 Words à |à 5 PagesPornography and Prostitution have much in common, both include compensated consenting adults engaging in sexual activity; however, pornography is legal, and prostitution is not. Websterââ¬â¢s dictionary defines prostitution as ââ¬Å"the act or practice of engaging in promiscuous sexual relations especially for moneyâ⬠. Although pornography is somehow widely accepted, it is essentially the same concept as prostitution, both involving consenting adults paid to perform sexual acts. While prostitution is controversial
Tuesday, May 12, 2020
Physics of Superconductors Essay example - 1323 Words
As most people know (or dont know, whichever is the case) the component of an electrical circuit that causes energy loss is called resistance, which can be defined as a materials opposition to current being passed through it. Usually, this resistance results in the production of heat, sound, or another form of energy. In many cases, this transformation of energy is useful in such applications as toasters, heaters, and light bulbs. Even though it is a useful property, resistance often gets in the way of performance in such cases as high voltage transmission wires, electric motor output, and other cases where internal system energy losses are unwanted. This is where the phenomenon of superconducting materials comes into play and mayâ⬠¦show more contentâ⬠¦The magnetic field for any temperature below the Tc is given by the follwoing eqution: Bc ââ°Ë Bc(0) * [1 - (T/Tc)^2] In the early 1900s a duch physicist by the name of Heike Kammerlingh Onnes (pictured above), discovered superconductivity. Before his discovery, Onnes had spent most of his scientific career studying extreme cold. The first step he took toward superconductivity was on July 10, 1908 when he liquified helium and cooled it to an astonishing 4 K, which is roughly the temperature of the background radiation in open space. Using this liquid helium, Onnes began experimenting with other materials and their properties when subjected to intense cold. In 1911, he began his research on the electrical properties of these same materials. It was known to Onnes that as materials, particularly metals, cooled, they exhibited less and less resistance. Bringing a mercury wire to as close to absolute zero as possible, Onnes observed that as the temperature dropped, so to did the resistance, until 4.2 K was reached. There resistance vanished and current flowed through the wire unhindered. Below is an appr oximate graph displaying resistance as a function of temperature for the experiment Onnes conducted with mercury: Continuing with his experiments, OnnesShow MoreRelatedCoherence, Entanglement, And Topological Phases Of Quantum Mechanical Waves832 Words à |à 4 Pagescondensed matter and solid state physics. My past research highlights coherence, entanglement, and topology in condensed matter systems. These features are unique in quantum systems, and can give rise to phenomena that do not have classical counterparts. Target systems of my interest include mesoscopic/nanoscopic systems such as graphene, spintronics, topological insulators, and strongly correlated electron systems such as quantum magnetism, unconventional superconductors, and the quantum Hall effectRead MoreAdvances in Superconductors and their Uses Essay563 Words à |à 3 PagesAdvances in Superconductors and their Uses A superconductor is an element or compound that will conduct electricity without resistance below a cretin temperature. The phenomenon was discovered in 1911 by Kamerlingh Onnes, who found that the resistance of mercury dropped suddenly to zero at a temperature of about 4.2à °K. For the next 75 years there followed a rather steady string of announcements of new materials that become superconducting near absolute zero. A major breakthrough occurred in 1986Read MoreNew Superconductors: Advances, Issues, Limitations Report by Amber Taylor CHME 5699 Dr. Laura1200 Words à |à 5 PagesNew Superconductors: Advances, Issues, Limitations Report by Amber Taylor CHME 5699 Dr. Laura Lewis Final Report 23 April 2014 Executive Summary One of the most exciting and magical phenomena observed today in science is the levitation of superconductors in the presence of a magnetic field. While entertaining, this effect is also extremely useful and could combat one of the largest issues facing the world today: how can we continue to transport goods and people without burning fossil fuelsRead MoreLiquid Helium, Its Discovery, Properties Applications And Limitations1398 Words à |à 6 PagesEdmond, OK ABSTRACT ââ¬Å"Superfluidsâ⬠are fluids that have zero viscosity. This means that the fluid will flow with zero friction as well as leak through certain surfaces that are otherwise considered sealed. In addition, superfluids are also superconductors. The paper discusses liquid helium, its discovery, properties applications and limitations. INTRODUCTION The discovery of what are known as ââ¬Å"superfluidsâ⬠was made relatively simultaneously in 1937 by two independent factions on opposite sidesRead MoreImportant Discoveries in Physics Essay2329 Words à |à 10 Pages Ideas in the subject of Physics are never absolute; it is a forever-changing topic. We think we have discovered everything there is to know about it, and then we find out something new that changes everything. That is one of the reasons physics is so interesting to learn about ââ¬â there will always be something new. There are many very important discoveries in Physics. This paper will describe some of the discoveries. These discoveries are prevalent throughout history and in our daily lives. OneRead More The Materials, Properties, and Theory of Superconductivity Essay1504 Words à |à 7 Pagesapplied to a superconducting material the current will continue in a closed lope without ever losing intensity. (Ecks, 1990) Superconductive materials can greatly vary in mechanics and materials. They are separated into Type 1 and Type 2 superconductors. All superconductors display the unique ability to repel magnetic fields, known as the Meissner effect. According to Shachtman (2000), Superconductivity was discovered when a physicist, Heike Kamerlingh Onnes, when he developed the process to produceRead MoreThe Effect Of Temperature On Magnetism And Machines1393 Words à |à 6 Pagesmercury, Onnes discovered that materials turn into superconductors when they are held at very low temperatures. This means that when electric currents are applied, there is basically no resistance. In 1913, Onnes was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his work in this field. Because of Onnes discovery, superconductors are now used all over the world. They are used in hospitals, in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) machines, in high-energy physics, and in nuclear fusion. Even though it seems very farRead MoreScience Fiction : An Invisibility Cloak1705 Words à |à 7 Pagesfor a specific need and allow for a lot of design flexibility and new technological possibilities. Metamaterials can be made of any material but are highly dependent on the application. These applications range anywhere from medical devices, superconductors, optical filters, sensors, solar cells, beam broadband connections, satellites, super lenses, and acoustics. Typical material choices are metals such as copper, gold, silver, or aluminum, combined with plastics, air, and ceramics (metamaterialscenterRead MoreHydrogen Super Highway9917 Words à |à 40 Pagesmaintain guidance (vertical and horizontal spacing) during travel. Low-speed Maglev travels up to 60 mph. In Pittsburghââ¬â¢s case, top speed will be about 40 mph. Q. Why do the superconducting magnets have to be super-cooled? A. Itââ¬â¢s a matter of complex physics. But by bathing superconducting magnetic coils in liquid helium, a refrigerant, scientists can create large magnetic fields that produce no electrical resistance ââ¬â they donââ¬â¢t lose power and they use very little energy. It happens almost like m agicRead MoreElectrical Conductors vs Insulators2781 Words à |à 12 Pagesbut have various uses that make them more versatile than conductors themselves. Lastly, are materials of recent times, called superconductors, that at very low temperatures, such as 230 Kelvin, can conduct freely without any resistance whatsoever. The difference comes down to nothing more than how the electrons are arranged around the nucleus. The laws of quantum physics say that there are only specific bands (or tracks) in which any electron can travel. There are some interesting facts about these
Wednesday, May 6, 2020
Comm 215 Week 1 Persuasive Essay Free Essays
Persuasive Essay Comm/215 What if your mother suddenly has a terrible heart attack and now needs open heart surgery. Picture your son or daughter getting into car wreck and needs an emergency blood transfusion. Imagine a sibling having leukemia, and needs regular blood transfusions to survive. We will write a custom essay sample on Comm 215 Week 1 Persuasive Essay or any similar topic only for you Order Now Not exactly what you want to think about on a Sunday afternoon, but these are the harsh realities of the world we live in. Many of you may have experience with these tragedies, and lost. If your thinking ââ¬Å"I wish I knew of a way to helpâ⬠well there is a way. With the simple donation of blood, platelets or plasma, you could save the life of a loved one or a complete stranger. There are many reasons why a person would require blood from a donor, car accidents, serious burns, and people with cancer, leukemia, heart, and liver diseases. A person dying from a failed organ may have to give up a transplant from lack of blood to help with the transfusion. It is estimated that 4. 5 million Americans will need blood this year. Of the Thirty Seven percent of Americans able to donate each year and only Ten percent actually do. This leaves Americaââ¬â¢s blood supply dangerously low. Only healthy able bodied people can donate blood, this also limits the number of people who can donate. Donated blood can be stored for up to forty-two days. There are several different types of blood A, B, AB and O each type can be positive or negative. Some blood types can only accept blood from the same type, making it very scary if that type hasnââ¬â¢t been donated. For example the O positive blood type is the universal donor, but O positive can only receive from another O positive donor. The average blood transfusion needs three pints of blood. Blood cannot be made or harvested, so donation is the only way to get blood. Just one blood donation made can save up to three human lives. After all the facts you have just received I am very hopeful that you will consider donating blood. You may want to know how to give blood; well let me shed some more light on the subject. You must be seventeen years of age and weigh at least 110 pounds and healthy. The donation last about fifteen minuets, but you may be required to stay in the facility for up to an hour this just ensures you have no ill effects from the donation, like dizziness or nausea. About one pint of blood is taken during the donation process; any fluid loss is replaced after twenty-four hours. There are some restrictions to giving blood, if you have lived or visited in certain countries you cannot give blood. The donation center near you will have all of the required information on these circumstances. So you see the donation process is safe and easy and most of you could be saving someoneââ¬â¢s life. There are some who oppose the donation and receiving of blood from others. Jehovahââ¬â¢s Witnesses feel it is against there religion to ingest, donate, or accept blood. There is also a ban on gay men being able to give blood. This ban is based upon the beliefs that gay men are more likely to have the AIDS virus. There has recently been talk of lifting the ban if the donor has not had sexual relations in at least ten years. As in most issues or controversial subjects what some people feel as ââ¬Å"rightâ⬠others could see it as wrong, thankfully we live in a country that allows us to be speak our minds. Iââ¬â¢m sure if the time came we would all expect that help would be forthcoming and available to anyone in need. But there are so many of us who donââ¬â¢t donate blood, out of lack of knowledge, or fear. Just think on how much peace of mind you could have if everyone donated blood. There would be no shortages, no possibility that a loved one would go without care due to a shortage of blood. I urge you to consider donating blood, to speak your friends and family about the importance of donating. You could be the one to save the next life, maybe even your own. Citations Americaââ¬â¢s Blood Centers. (2007). Retrieved from http://www. americasblood. org/go. cfm? do=page. view=12 New Mexico Donor Services. (). Retrieved from http://www. donatelifenm. org/religiousviews. htm The Periscope Post. (). Retrieved from http://www. periscopepost. com/2011/04/should-gay-men-be-allowed-to-donate-blood/ How to cite Comm 215 Week 1 Persuasive Essay, Essays
Comm 215 Week 1 Persuasive Essay Free Essays
Persuasive Essay Comm/215 What if your mother suddenly has a terrible heart attack and now needs open heart surgery. Picture your son or daughter getting into car wreck and needs an emergency blood transfusion. Imagine a sibling having leukemia, and needs regular blood transfusions to survive. We will write a custom essay sample on Comm 215 Week 1 Persuasive Essay or any similar topic only for you Order Now Not exactly what you want to think about on a Sunday afternoon, but these are the harsh realities of the world we live in. Many of you may have experience with these tragedies, and lost. If your thinking ââ¬Å"I wish I knew of a way to helpâ⬠well there is a way. With the simple donation of blood, platelets or plasma, you could save the life of a loved one or a complete stranger. There are many reasons why a person would require blood from a donor, car accidents, serious burns, and people with cancer, leukemia, heart, and liver diseases. A person dying from a failed organ may have to give up a transplant from lack of blood to help with the transfusion. It is estimated that 4. 5 million Americans will need blood this year. Of the Thirty Seven percent of Americans able to donate each year and only Ten percent actually do. This leaves Americaââ¬â¢s blood supply dangerously low. Only healthy able bodied people can donate blood, this also limits the number of people who can donate. Donated blood can be stored for up to forty-two days. There are several different types of blood A, B, AB and O each type can be positive or negative. Some blood types can only accept blood from the same type, making it very scary if that type hasnââ¬â¢t been donated. For example the O positive blood type is the universal donor, but O positive can only receive from another O positive donor. The average blood transfusion needs three pints of blood. Blood cannot be made or harvested, so donation is the only way to get blood. Just one blood donation made can save up to three human lives. After all the facts you have just received I am very hopeful that you will consider donating blood. You may want to know how to give blood; well let me shed some more light on the subject. You must be seventeen years of age and weigh at least 110 pounds and healthy. The donation last about fifteen minuets, but you may be required to stay in the facility for up to an hour this just ensures you have no ill effects from the donation, like dizziness or nausea. About one pint of blood is taken during the donation process; any fluid loss is replaced after twenty-four hours. There are some restrictions to giving blood, if you have lived or visited in certain countries you cannot give blood. The donation center near you will have all of the required information on these circumstances. So you see the donation process is safe and easy and most of you could be saving someoneââ¬â¢s life. There are some who oppose the donation and receiving of blood from others. Jehovahââ¬â¢s Witnesses feel it is against there religion to ingest, donate, or accept blood. There is also a ban on gay men being able to give blood. This ban is based upon the beliefs that gay men are more likely to have the AIDS virus. There has recently been talk of lifting the ban if the donor has not had sexual relations in at least ten years. As in most issues or controversial subjects what some people feel as ââ¬Å"rightâ⬠others could see it as wrong, thankfully we live in a country that allows us to be speak our minds. Iââ¬â¢m sure if the time came we would all expect that help would be forthcoming and available to anyone in need. But there are so many of us who donââ¬â¢t donate blood, out of lack of knowledge, or fear. Just think on how much peace of mind you could have if everyone donated blood. There would be no shortages, no possibility that a loved one would go without care due to a shortage of blood. I urge you to consider donating blood, to speak your friends and family about the importance of donating. You could be the one to save the next life, maybe even your own. Citations Americaââ¬â¢s Blood Centers. (2007). Retrieved from http://www. americasblood. org/go. cfm? do=page. view=12 New Mexico Donor Services. (). Retrieved from http://www. donatelifenm. org/religiousviews. htm The Periscope Post. (). Retrieved from http://www. periscopepost. com/2011/04/should-gay-men-be-allowed-to-donate-blood/ How to cite Comm 215 Week 1 Persuasive Essay, Essays
Saturday, May 2, 2020
Macroeconomics Principles - Problems - and Policies Method
Question: Discuss about the Macroeconomics for Principles, Problems, and Policies Method. Answer: Introduction: The reasons for frequent change in price of oil in Australia are explained below (Sweeney, 2016). Oil is a commodity and hence the global price is governed by the underlying demand and supply forces. As a result, a supply shock could limit the supply and increase the price. The benchmark prices of oil are expressed in USD and hence the fluctuation of exchange rate of Australian dollar vis--vis the US dollar would result in price movements of oil. The oil prices are also impacted by the pricing cycles witnessed in the major cities which tend to be variable. The fuel prices are also impacted by these cycles. The major reasons contributing to the shift of global oil supply are outlined below (EIA, 2010) Production by OPEC members The OPEC is a cartel of major oil producing nations led by Saudi Arabia and is responsible for a majority of the global oil production. In order to ensure that the interest of the members remains safeguarded, the production trends are altered which alters the global supply. Shale production in US In the recent times, the production of shale oil has transformed the global oil industry as the US has become a major producer of oil. With the shale boom, the bargaining power of the OPEC has significantly declined as US has become self-sufficient in oil production. Production by non-OPEC members The production by non-OPEC members in the recent times has increased which to some extent has also altered the global supply. Further the exclusion of Iran from OPEC and the lifting of global sanctions also has impact on the oil supply. There is a close link between oil prices and economic growth. This is primarily because the usage of oil is very wide right from the raw material in production of various goods to the usage as transportation fuel which is a key component of logistics cost. As a result, the increase in global price of oil leads to increase in the prices of various fuels such as petrol, diesel. The increase in prices of these fuels tends to influence the logistics cost, electricity production cost and tends to enhance the cost of these. Besides, various petrochemicals derived from oil are used as raw materials for a host of finished goods whose input price would increase (Mankiw, 2012). The increase in input prices for various goods coupled with higher logistics cost would lead to rise in prices or cost inflation. Due to the rising prices of the goods, the consumption of these goods would decrease. The lower consumption of goods would gradually lead to a surplus of goods created which in turn would result in lowering capacity utilisation. As a result, there would be higher unemployment and further reduction in the income levels. The cumulative effect of the above would be decreased economic growth as there is lower production and lower consumption of goods and services. In such cases, government needs to intervene so as to enhance the overall consumption of goods and services by simulating demand (McConnell, Brue and Flynn, 2014). References EIA 2016, What drives crude oil prices?, [Online] Available at https://www.eia.gov/finance/markets/reports_presentations/eia_what_drives_crude_oil_prices.pdf [Accessed 5 February 2017] Mankiw, G. 2012. Principles of Macroeconomics, 6th ed., London: Cengage Learning McConnell, C., Brue, S. and Flynn, S. 2014. Macroeconomics: Principles, Problems, Policies, 20th ed., New York: McGraw Hill/Irwin Publications Sweeney, L. 2016, Petrol prices: Why do retail prices fluctuate from city to city, day to day?, [Online] Available at https://www.abc.net.au/news/2015-01-07/why-do-petrol-prices-fluctuate-around-the-country/6004866 [Accessed 5 February 2017]
Monday, March 23, 2020
Awhile versus A While - Commonly Confused Words
'Awhile' versus 'A While' - Commonly Confused Words Its easy to confuse the adverb awhile with the two-word noun phrase a while: the main difference between them is grammatical.The adverb awhile (one word) means for a short time: Stay awhile. The noun phrase a while (two words) refers to a period of time: I sat for a while and waited. Also, see the usage notes below. Examples Before removing the radiator cap, wait awhile for the engine to cool.I havent been to a football game in a long while. Usage Notes Awhile is an adverb, with the same meaning as the adverbial prepositional phrase for a while: Lets rest awhile; Lets rest for a while. When for a while cannot be substituted for awhile, awhile should be a while: spend a while with me. When for occurs, awhile should not follow; Stay for awhile should be Stay for a while or Stay awhile.(Edward Johnson, The Handbook of Good English. Washington Square Press, 1991)As a noun, spell it as two words:à a while. As an adverb, spell it as one:à awhile.(Bryan Garner, Garners Modern American Usage. Oxford University Press, 2009) Practice (a) Lifes short. If you dont look around once in _____ you might miss it.(Ferris Bueller in the movieà Ferris Buellers Day Off, 1986)(b) Merdine invited me to stay ____ longer, but it was getting late. Answers to Practice Exercises: Awhile and A While a) Lifes short. If you dont look around once in a while you might miss it. (Ferris Bueller)(b) Merdine invited me to stay awhile longer, but it was getting late.à Glossary of Usage: Index of Commonly Confused Words
Friday, March 6, 2020
Stock Report essays
Stock Report essays The original five stocks I started out with were Sirius (SIRI), Sun Microsystems (SUNW), Vitesse (VTSS), Nortel Networks (NT), and Nextel Communications (NXTL). I purchased 227 shares of SIRI at $2.86 each, 100 shares of SUNW at $5.50 each, 145 shares of VTSS at $8.61 each, 172 shares of NT at $7.53 and then another 82 shares at $7.62 each, and 44 shares of NXTL at $27.88 each. NXTL, SUNW, and VTSS immediately started taking a downward turn and I decided to sell only NXTL. On 3/7, I sold all my NXTL shares and used half the money to buy 56 shares of CHINA at $10.98 each and half the money to buy more NT. The next day, CHINA immediately dropped down sixty-three cents. All of my stocks except for SIRI and NT were down. On 4/19, I sold all my CHINA stocks and purchased 30 shares of NOK at $14.92 each. In a few days, NOK went up twenty-nine cents but soon dropped to $14.23. At this time, NT had dropped down almost two dollars. By 5/20, all my stocks were down except for SIRI. SIRI was up twenty-four cents. Overall, I had made a profit of $54.48 on SIRI alone. SUNW was down almost two dollars and I lost $166 on my SUNW shares. VTSS was down to almost half its original price and I lost $536.50. NT was down half of the price of which I had bought the second 82 shares for. On NT, I had lost $1076.72. NOK had gone down about a dollar and I lost $53.10 on my shares. Out of my starting $5000, I only had $3222.16 left. SIRI had no particular reason for going up. One reason SUNW went down is that its operating system, Solaris, was not doing well against its competitor, Linux. Also, Sun Microsystems has had a weak quarter and cannot hold share in the Unix computing market. SUNW stocks were also overvalued. Vitasses competitors had been performing better than it, causing its stocks to take a downturn. Its competitors had introduced more products while Vitasse had not, and the predictions for their quarterly revenue...
Tuesday, February 18, 2020
Effective Customer Care for Business Success Coursework
Effective Customer Care for Business Success - Coursework Example This is the more reason that the customer care provider should be dynamic in dealing with different customers and must know how to handle each in a unique way. Communication, therefore, becomes vital in addressing each customerââ¬â¢s needs effectively. TASK 1: Developing a plan for the management of customer contact for EcoJET Airways (i) Identify three EcoJET target markets and briefly explain why you have identified each as a target market. A target market for a particular business is a group of customers who have a common relationship with each other. Some of the commonalities shared by such customer groups include but not limited to sharing similar demographic characteristics, residing or working in the same location, using the product/service for the same reason among others. For EcoJET Airways, one of the target markets may be identified as the business class travellers class of customers mainly because these customers travel for the same reason as part of carrying out busin ess activities between the three cities of Sydney-Melbourne-Brisbane or they could be classified as a target market because of the fact that they travel business class as a specific product/service offered by EcoJET Airways. These business travellers may also be staying in any of the three states, therefore, qualifying as a target market for the airline by virtue of common place of residence. The Airline provides various services to clients in this particular market including bus shuttle service from airport to CBD, Business travel lounge facilities, Use of mobile phone in-flight, In-screen entertainment with live access to major financial and business pay television channels (Lecture 1, p.18). Another market segment for EcoJET Airways are groups of customers flying across the three states at the same hours mainly 9am arrivals and between 5pm and 7pm departures. This is a perfect market niche for the airline because the customers use the air travel services at common times of day or night perhaps as a consequence of their work schedules or dictated by the hours of business around the three cities. Customers from the regional markets outside the three major cities could be another class of customers, which EcoJET Airways is trying to reach through the cooperative arrangement with Rural Express. This is a potential target market because the customers are non-city dwellers who wish to travel to either of the cities to carry out personal business, shopping, or for other different reasons. One of the airlineââ¬â¢s policies is to promote sustainable air travel through minimization of emissions. Customers who subscribe to this, thus accepting to pay a carbon offset fee, may be classified as a target market for the firm; as opposed to another category which does not subscribe to the policy. (ii) Question TWO a. Skills which would benefit EcoJET staff in identifying and satisfying customer needs and expectations In identifying customer needs and expectations, commun ication is key and proper planning for it should involve carrying out adequate research about customer requirements ahead of meeting them, products or services on offer to suit needs identified and preparation for questions and clarifications. One of the ways communication can take place between the customer and promoter of the product/service is through non-verbal communication that involves the use of body language such as facial expressions, gestures, hands/ body movements, different
Monday, February 3, 2020
Mark and Spencer Strategy Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2250 words
Mark and Spencer Strategy - Essay Example According to the paper findings in order to get deeper understandings of the external factors affecting the companyââ¬â¢s operations including trends and environmental issues. The PESTLE analysis is used to analyse the business market and establish the potential external issues affecting the business in the political, economic, social, technological, legal and environmental circles.From this essay it is clear the political set up in the business environment affects the consumersââ¬â¢ buying power and the regulations governing the entity. It is therefore important for Marks Spencer to take into account certain political issues before introducing a give business strategy. The company is based in the UK whose political environment is relatively stable. In addition to, the tax and labor systems in the country have been regarded as the most attractive in the developed world.à The UK economy is ranked as being the fourth largest in the world and it is viewed to be an open economy. It is further characterised by well managed fiscal and monetary policies with full financial government support and low inflation rates. The company should consider any short- term and long- term issues affecting its operations before implementing any strategy. The socio- cultural factors affecting entities differ across countries. Being an international company, Marks & Spencer has spread its operations across the globe. The management needs to address this issue by looking at some of the factors affecting the consumersââ¬â¢ attitudes, tastes and preferences in local and foreign markets.à ... In addition to, the tax and labor systems in the country have been regarded as the most attractive in the developed world. à Economic Factors The UK economy is ranked as being the fourth largest in the world and it is viewed to be an open economy. It is further characterised by well managed fiscal and monetary policies with full financial government support and low inflation rates. The company should consider any short- term and long- term issues affecting its operations before implementing any strategy (Left, 2001). The company is advised to invest more in the clothing industry as the young people are more likely to spend their disposable income on clothing. Social Factors The socio- cultural factors affecting entities differ across countries. Being an international company, Marks & Spencer has spread its operations across the globe (Rayner, 2008). The management needs to address this issue by looking at some of the factors affecting the consumersââ¬â¢ attitudes, tastes and pre ferences in local and foreign markets. Taking these aspects into consideration ensures that they meet the needs of the organisation. Technological Factors Technology is an important factor since it gives a company competitive advantage over its competitors in the global market. Marks & Spencer competitors are argued to be more developed in the application of technology (Rayner, 2008). This can be observed from the fact that the company introduced online shopping and loyalty cards after their major competitors. This can have an adverse impact on the entityââ¬â¢s competitive position and itââ¬â¢s a high time the company started using the latest technology in their sales and production process. Legal Factors The legal environment in the UK is favourable
Sunday, January 26, 2020
Biochemical and Hormonal Changes in Childhood Obesity
Biochemical and Hormonal Changes in Childhood Obesity The prevalence of chronic or non communicable disease is escalating much more rapidly in developing countries than in industrialized countries. According to World Health Organization (WHO) estimates, by the 2020, non communicable diseases will account for approximately three quarter of all deaths in the developing countries (WHO. Global Strategy for non communicable disease prevention, 1997). In this regard, a potential emerging public health issue for the developing countries may be increasing incidence of childhood obesity with associated complications, which in turn is likely to create public health burden for poorer nations in the near future (Freedman et al, 2001). Lower to middle income nations face the double burden of having both malnourished and over nourished population, with most overweight and obese children being concentrated in urban areas. Rapid urbanization is associated with unhealthy lifestyle or New World Syndrome. In addition, in such communities, childhood obesit y is still considered a sign of healthiness and high social class. There is no universal consensus on a cut off points for defining overweight and obesity in children and adolescents, usually, for clinical practice and epidemiological studies, child overweight and obesity are assessed by means of indicators based on weight and height measurements, such as weight for height measures or body mass index (weight (kg)/height (m2))(WHO. Report series no.847, 1995).The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) defines obese as being at or above 95th percentile of body mass index for age (Kuczmarsk RJ et al, 2000). History of obesity is both interesting and gives details of its progression. Obesity is an age-old health condition. Through out the history of obesity, its reputation varies from appreciation and opposite among cultures and in time. Ancient Egyptians are said to consider obesity as disease. Perhaps the most famous and earliest evidence of obesity is the Venus figurines, Statuettes of an obese female torso that probably had a major role in rituals. Ancient China has also been aware of obesity and dangers that come with it. They always were a believer of prevention as a key to longevity. The Aztecs believed that obesity was supernatural, an affliction of the gods. Hippocrates, the father of medicines was aware of sudden deaths being more common among obese men than lean ones as stated in his writings. In certain cultures and areas where food is scarce and poverty is prevalent, is viewed as symbol of wealth and social status. To date, an African tribe purposely plumps up a bride to pre pare her for child bearing. Before a wedding can be set, a slim bride is pampered to gain weight until she reaches the suitable weight. Through out the history of obesity, the publics view and status of obesity changed considerably in the 1900s. It was regarded as unfashionable by the French designer, Paul Poi ret who designed skin-revealing clothes for women. About the same time, the incidence of obesity began to increase and become wide spread. Later in 1940s, Metropolitan life insurance published a chart of ideal weight for various heights. They also advocated that weight gain parallel to age is unhealthy. The government and medical society become more hands-on with obesity by imitating campaign against it. This was preceded by a study of risk factors for cardiovascular disease revealing obesity in the high ranks. Since then various diets and exercise programs have emerged. In 1996, the Body Mass Index (BMI) was published. This statistical calculation and index determined that a person is obese or not. At this time ,obesity incidence have soared, led by children and adolescent obesity, tripling in just a few short years, greater than any number in the history of obesity. This increase in the incidence of childhood obesity with associated cardiovascular risks, type 2 diabetes mellitus and stroke is supported by a considerable body of evidence. The prevalence of overweight and obesity in childhood and adolescents has been increasing throughout much of the developed and developing world for the past few decades. It has become increasingly clear that excess adiposity in childhood predisposes individual not only to increased risk of adiposity and its sequaele as adults (Freedman et al, 2001), but also to increased risk of multiple chronic diseases in childhood and adolescence (Rosen bloom et al, 1999). Though mechanism not clearly delineated, excess body weight and adiposity is associated with type 2 diabetes mellitus and its complications, cardiovascular disease risk factors, non alcoholic fatty liver disease and asthma in youth. Childhood Obesity 1930 1972 Risk factors for coronary heart disease (CHD) such as hypertension, dyslipidemia, impaired glucose tolerance and vascular abnormalities were present in overweight children. CHD is likely to be increased in overweight children when they become adults as a result of established risk factors. This study investigated whether excess weight in childhood was associated with CHD in adulthood among a very large cohort of persons born in Denmark in 1930 through 1972. They underwent mandatory annual health examination at public or private schools in Copenhagen. Each child was examined by school doctors or nurses and was assigned a health card bearing childs name, date of birth, birth weight reported by parents. 10,235 men and 4,318 women, for whom childhood BMI data were available, received a diagnosis of CHD or died of CHD as adults. The risk of CHD event, a non fatal event, and a fatal event among adults was positively associated with BMI at 7-13 years of age for boys and 10 to 13 years of ag e as girls. The associations were linear for each age and risk increased across the entire BMI distribution. Childhood Obesity 1930 1972 Risk factors for coronary heart disease (CHD) such as hypertension, dyslipidemia, impaired glucose tolerance and vascular abnormalities were present in overweight children. CHD is likely to be increased in overweight children when they become adults as a result of established risk factors. This study investigated whether excess weight in childhood was associated with CHD in adulthood among a very large cohort of persons born in Denmark in 1930 through 1972. They underwent mandatory annual health examination at public or private schools in Copenhagen. Each child was examined by school doctors or nurses and was assigned a health card bearing childs name, date of birth, birth weight reported by parents. 10,235 men and 4,318 women, for whom childhood BMI data were available, received a diagnosis of CHD or died of CHD as adults. The risk of CHD event, a non fatal event, and a fatal event among adults was positively associated with BMI at 7-13 years of age for boys and 10 to 13 years of ag e as girls. The associations were linear for each age and risk increased across the entire BMI distribution. Childhood Obesity and Economic Growth 1930-1983 Childhood obesity was related to the economic growth during the 50 years of economic growth in the industrialized world especially in Denmark. Annual measurements of height and weight were available for all children born between 1930 and 1983 attending primary schools in Copenhagen Municipality. 165,389 boys and 163,609 girls from the age of 7 through 13 years were included in this study. After computerization SBMI (kg/m2) were calculated and the prevalence of overweight and obesity according to international age and genderââ¬âspecific criteria. Economics growth was indicated by the Gross National Product and the overall consumption per capita, adjusted for inflation. Prevalence of overweight and obesity among Danish children rose in phases, which were not paralleled by trends in economic growth. The microeconomics growth indicators seem inappropriate as proxies for the environmental exposures that have elicited the obesity epidemic. Childhood obesity and television viewing Children spend a substantial portion of their lives watching television (TV). Investigators have hypothesized that TV viewing causes obesity by one or more than three mechanisms: Displacement of physical activity. Increased calorie consumption while watching or caused by the effects of advertising. Reduced resting metabolism. The relationship between TV viewing and obesity has been examined in a relatively large number of cross sectional epidemiological but few longitudinal studies. Many of them have found relatively weak, positive association or mixed results. Many experimental studies have found that reducing TV viewing may help to reduce the risk of obesity. One school based experimental study was designed specifically to test directly the casual relationship between TV viewing behaviors and body fatness. The results of this randomized controlled trial provide evidence that TV viewing is a cause of increased body fatness and that reducing the TV viewing is a promising strategy for preventing childhood obesity (Robinson; 2001). The objective of another study (Utter J et al, 2006), was to explore how time spent watching television (TV) is associated with the dietary behavior of New Zealand children and young adolescents. Total number of participants was 3275 children aged 5-17 years. The findings suggest that longer duration of TV watching (thus more frequent exposure to advertising) influences the frequency of consumption of soft drinks, some sweets and snacks and some fast foods among children and young adolescents. Efforts to control the time spent watching TV may result in better dietary habits and weight control for children and adolescents. Childhood Obesity US- A decade of progress, 1990-1999 Current data suggest that 20% of US children are overweight .An analysis of the secular trends suggest that 20% of US children are overweight, and a clear up ward trend in body weight in children of 0.2 Kg between 1973 and 1994. In addition, childhood obesity is more prevalent among minority sub groups such as African Americans. Obesity that begins early in life persists into adulthood and increases the risk of obesity related conditions later in life. There has been tremendous increase in the number of studies examining the etiology and health effects of obesity in children (Goran MI, 1990-1999).1980 (boys 0.2% girls 0.5%) and 1997 (boys 1.2%, girls 2.0%). Ten years trends of childhood obesity in Israel 1990-2000 Cross sectional data was collected from 13284 second and fifth class school; children between 1990-2000. Prevalence of obesity was determined using Israeli and US reference values. BMI values at 95th percentile increased overtime in all ages and sex categories. Between 1990 and 2000, 95th centile values were increased by 12.7%and 11.8% among second grade boys and girls respectively. Among fifth graders in 2000, 10.7% of boys and 11.1% of girls exceeded the 1990 BMI reference values. The proportion of obese children increased over time using both Israeli and US reference values (Huerta Michael et al, 2008). Netherlands. Overweight, Obesity in 2003: V.1980-97. Data on 90,071 children, aged 4-16 years were routinely collected by 11 Community Heath Services during 2002-2004. International cut -off points for BMI to determine overweight and obesity. On average, 14.5% of boys and 17.5% of the girls were overweight (including obesity), which is a substantial increase since 1980 (boys 3.9% and girls 6.9%) and 1997 (boys 9.7% and girls 13%). Similarly 2.6% of the boys and 3.3% 0f the girls aged 4-16 years were obese, which is much higher than in 1980 (boys 0.2% and girls 0.5%) and 1997 (boys 1.2% and girls 2.0%), (KatjaVan Den Husk, 2007). Obesity trends in US. 2003-2006 Height and weight measurements were obtained from 8164 children and adolescents as apart of the 2003-2004 and 2005-2006 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Because no statistically significant differences in the prevalence of high BMI for age were found between the estimates for 2003-2004 and 2005-2006, data for four years were combined to provide more stable estimates for the most recent time period. Over all, in 2003-2006, 11.3% of children and adolescents aged 2 through years were at or above 97th percentile of the 2000 BMI- for- age growth charts, 16.3% were at or above 95th percentile. Prevalence estimates vary by age and by racial/ethnic group. Analysis of the trends in high BMI for age showed no statistically significant trend over the four time periods (1999-2000, 2001-2002, 2003-2004, and 2005-2006) for either boys or girls (Cynthia l.Ogden et al, 2008). 11-March 2005. Public Release Date: Consensus on Childhood Obesity, Recommends classification as disease A common statement on childhood obesity was published to day in the journal of Chemical Endocrinology and Metabolism (one of the journals of Endocrine Society). The consensus statement reflects the conclusions from an international summit held in Israel last year (2004) and includes a controversial recommendation to classify obesity as a disease. This decision was based upon the available research on the diagnosis, prevalence, causes (including endocrine disorders), risks, prevention and treatment of childhood obesity. Pediatric obesity is now recognized as a major health problem all over the world. Researcher have found that children who are obese have a higher risks adult obesity, which is strongly associated with many serious medical complications that impair quality of life and lead to additional increased risks. The statement also noted the prevalence of overweight/obesity among children 6-11 years (in the US) doubled between the years 1980-2000. By classifying obesity as legiti mate disease, public funding and in user sreimbursement for obesity treatment becomes legalized (consensus on childhood obesity, 2005). Serious health risks will likely to begin to appear in obese children and adolescents as they grow older. These may include diabetes mellitus, metabolic syndrome, hyperandrogenism, heart disease, hypertension, respiratory factors, and sleep disorders. Obese children are also at greater risk of anxiety and depression. It also recommended a number of measures that can be implemented by parents; schools, health providers and government and regulatory agencies to help to prevent the onset of childhood obesity Endocrine Regulation of Energy Metabolism Adipocytokines and Obesity The mechanism underlying obesity was further explained by the discovery of adipocytokines, the role of peripheral thyroid hormones (T4, T3), thyroid stimulating hormone and insulin the regulation of energy metabolism. The levels of some of the adipocytokines were shown to be related to visceral obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus and coronary artery disease. Plasma levels of all the adipocytokines increase with the obesity except adiponectin (Yuji Matsuzawa et al, 2003). Recent studies point out to the adipose tissue as a highly active organ secreting a range of hormones, Leptin, Adiponectin, and Resistin. They are considered to take part in the regulation of energy metabolism. Leptin, Adiponectin and Resistin are produced by the adipose tissue. Leptin and Adiponectin are insulin sensitizing while Resistin increase the insulin resistance. Leptin The notion that genetic abnormalities contribute to obesity gained important support with the identification of the Ob gene and its protein product in 1994 (Zhangy et al, 1996). The Ob gene termed Leptin from the Greek Leptos, meaning thin, is produced in adipose tissue and is thought to act as an afferent satiety signal in a feed back loop that affects the appetite and satiety centre in the hypothalamus of brain. The ultimate effect of this loop is to regulate body-fat mass. In human, as noted by Considine et al, 1996; caloric restriction reduces leptin concentrations and Ob mRNA levels in adipose tissue, and refeeding increases these levels. One fundamental mechanism of obesity is insensitivity to the action of Leptin, presumably in the hypothalamus. The Leptins primary physiological function is to provide a signal to suppress body fat by decreasing food intake or increasing energy expenditure. Serum leptin concentrations change more during weight loss than during weight gain (Rose nbaum M et al, 1997). Adiponectin Adiponectin or Adipo Q, an adipocyte specific secreted protein with roles in glucose and lipid homeostasis (Insulin stimulates the secretion of adiponectin). Circulating adiponectin concentrations are high 500-30,000 à µg/l (5-30mg/ml) accounting for 0.01% of total plasma proteins (Berget et al, 2002). Adiponectin was discovered in the mid 1990s by four different groups of researchers (Hu E et al, 1996). Adiponectin has various biological functions including insulin sensitizing (Hotta K et al, 2000), antiatherogenic (Yamauchi T et al, 2003), anti-inflammatory (Ouchi N et al, 2003), antiangiogenic and anti tumor functions (Brakenhielm E et al, 2004). Adiponectin acts through Adiponectin receptors, Adipo R1 and Adipo R2. Adipo R1 is mostly expressed in skeletal muscles and Adipo R2 is abundant in liver. These receptors are also expressed by the pancreatic ß cells (Kharroubi et al, 2003), macrophages and atherosclerotic lesions (Chinetti et al, 2004) as well as in brain (Yamauchi et al, 2003). Circulating Adiponectin levels display diurnal variation with a nocturnal decline and maximum levels in the late morning (Gavrila et al, 2003). Adiponectin is also found in breast milk, which in turn is implicated in childhood obesity prevention (Savino et al, 2008). Among the various adipocytokines, adiponectin, which is an abundant circulating protein (247 amino acids) synthesized purely in adipose tissue, appears to play a very important role in carbohydrates, lipid metabolism and vascular biology. Adiponectin appears to be a major modulator of insulin action and its levels are reduced in type 2 diabetes mellitus, which could contribute to peripheral insulin resistance in this condition. It has significant insulin sensitizing as well as anti inflammatory properties that include suppression of macrophage phagocytosis and TNF-a secretion and blockage of monocytes adhesion to endothelial cells in vitro. Although further investigations are required, Adiponectin administration, as well as regulation of the pathway controlling its production, represents a promising target for managing obesity, hyperlipidemia, insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes mellitus, and vascular inflammation (Manju Chandran et al, 2003). Resistin Human resistin is 108 amino acids prepeptide and is cleaved before its secretion from the Adipose tissue. Resistin circulates in the blood as dimeric protein consisting of 92 amino acids polypeptides that are linked by a disulfide bridge. Holcomb et al, 2000 first described the gene family and its tissue specific distribution. Originally described as lung specific, is also produced by the adipose tissue and peripheral blood monocytes. It is also present in dividing epithelia of the intestine. Resistin increase blood glucose and insulin concentration in the mice and impairs hypoglycemic response to insulin infusion. In addition, anti resistin antibodies decrease blood glucose and insulin sensitivity in obese mice (Ukkalo O, 2002). The physiological role of resistin in human remains controversial. There more resistin protein in obese than lean individuals, with a significant positive correlation between resistin and BMI. BMI is a significant predictor of insulin resistance, but resisti n adjusted for BMI is not. These data demonstrate that resistin protein is present in human adipose tissue and blood and that there is significantly more resistin in serum of obese individuals. Serum resistin is not a significant predictor of insulin resistance in human (Youn et al, 2003, Rear R and Donnelly R, 2004). Tumor Necrosis Factor-a It will be unreasonable not to mention the Tumor Necrosis Factor a and its role in vascular inflammation related to atherosclerosis especially in obesity. It is a cytokine involved in systemic inflammation and is a member of a group of cytokines that stimulate the acute phase reaction. The primary role of TNF is in the regulation of immune cells. TNF is able to induce apoptotic cell death, to induce inflammation and to inhibit tumourgenesis and viral replication. Dysregulation and, in particular, over production of TNF have been implicated in a variety of human diseases, as well as cancer (Locksley et al, 2001). The theory of antitumoural response of the immune system in vivo was recognized by the physician William B in 1968. Dr A Granger reported a cytotoxic factor produced by lymphocytes and named it Lymphotoxin (Kalli WB and Granger GA, 1968). Dr L Loyal old, in 1975 reported another cytotoxic factor produced by macrophages and named it Tumor Necrosis Factor (TNF) (Cars well et al, 1975). Interleukin ââ¬â 6 (IL-6) Chronic inflammation is linked to endothelial dysfunction, atherosclerosis, and insulin resistance (Fernandez-Real JM and Ricart W, 2003 and Fernandez-Real JM, Ricart W, 2005). Plasma concentrations of proinflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin (IL) 18, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-a, and of several other inflammatory markers are increased in patients with ischemic heart disease (Fernandez-Real JM and Ricart W, 2003, Ridker PM et al, 2002, Engstrom G et al, 2004, Ridker PM et al, 1997, Pradham AD et al, 2002). Circulating cytokines also are elevated in type 2 diabetes, obesity, and insulin resistance syndrome and play a central role in the pathogenesis of these disorders (Fernandez-Real JM and Ricart W, 2003). IL-6 is a mediator of the inflammatory response, and it is linked to dyslipidemia, type 2 diabetes, and risk of myocardial infarction (Fernandez-Real JM and Ricart W, 2003, Ridker PM et al, 2000, Esteve E et al, 2005, Yudkin JS et al, 2000). IL-6 is secreted by a variety of different cell types, including lymphoid and endothelial cells, fibroblasts, skeletal muscle, and adipose tissue. Circulating IL-6 levels correlate with obesity and insulin resistance and may predict the development of type 2 diabetes mellitus (Yudkin JS et al, 2000, Pradhan AD et al, 2001, Akira S et al, 1993, Mohamed-Ali V et al, 1997). Endothelial dysfunction is regarded as a causal factor in the development of atherosclerosis (Hansson GK, 2005). It is one of the earliest abnormalities that can be detected in people at risk for cardiovascular events, and it is linked to insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes (Steinberg HO and Baron AD, 2002, Natali A et al, 2006). Cytokines have an important role in the endothelial injury induced by inflammation. The vascular endothelium is involved in the inflammatory response to atherosclerosis (Hansson GK, 2005, Steinberg HO and Baron AD, 2002, Natali A et al, 2006, Widlansky ME et al, 2003), and changes in endothelium function could underlie the association between cardiovascular disease and inflammation. Obesity Related Insulin Resistance: Definition and Pathogenesis Insulin resistance is a state in which a given amount of insulin produces a subnormal biological response (Kahn CR, 1978). In particular, it is characterized by a decrease in the ability of insulin to stimulate the use of glucose by muscles and adipose tissue and to suppress hepatic glucose production and output (Matthaei et al, 2000). Furthermore, it accounts a resistance to insulin action on protein and lipid metabolism and on vascular endothelial function and genes expression (Bajaj M and Defronzo RA, 2003). Several defects in the insulin signaling cascade have been implicated in the pathogenesis of insulin resistance, Insulin resistance is believed to have both genetic and environmental factors implicated in its etiology (Matthaei et al, 2000 and Liu et al, 2004). The genetic component seems to be polygenic in nature, and several genes have been suggested as potential candidates (Matthaei et al, 2000). However, several other factors can influence insulin sensitivity, such as obesity, ethnicity, gender, perinatal factors, puberty, sedentary lifestyle and diet (Liu et al, 2004). The Role of Fatty Acids and Adipocytokines Obesity represents the major risk factor for the development of insulin resistance in children and adolescents (Caprio S, 2002), and insulin resistance/hyperinsulinemia is believed to be an important link between obesity and the associated metabolic abnormalities and cardiovascular risk (Weiss R and Kaufman FR, 2008). Approximately, 55% of the variance in insulin sensitivity in children can be explained by total adiposity, after adjusting for other confounders, such as age, gender, ethnicity and pubertal stage (Caprio S, 2002). Obese children have hyperinsulinemia and peripheral insulin resistance with an ~40% lower insulin-stimulated glucose metabolism than non-obese children (Caprio S et al, 19996). Adipose tissue seems to play a key role in the pathogenesis of insulin resistance through several released metabolites, hormones and adipocytokines that can affect different steps in insulin action (Matsuzawa Y, 2005) (Fig. 1). Adipocytes produce non-esterified fatty acids, which inhibit carbohydrate metabolism via substrate competition and impaired intracellular insulin signaling (Matsuzawa Y, 2005, Griffin ME et al 1999 and Randle PJ, 1998). In children, as in adults, several adipocytokines have been related to adiposity indexes as well as to insulin resistance. Adiponectin is one of the most common cytokines produced by adipose tissue, with an important insulin sensitizing effect associated with anti-atherogenetic properties (Despres JP, 2006 and Gil-Campos M et al, 2004). Whereas obesity is generally associated with an increased release of metabolites by adipose tissue, levels of Adiponectin are inversely related to adiposity (Matsuzawa Y, 2005). Therefore, reduced levels of this adipocytokine have been implicated in the pathogenesis of insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome (Matsuzawa Y, 2005). Decreased levels of Adiponectin have been detected across tertiles of insulin resistance in children and adolescents (Weiss R et al, 2004), where it is a good predictor of insulin sensitivity, independently of adiposity (Lee S et al, 2006). Adipose tissue also produces tumour necrosis factor-a, an inflammatory factor, which can alter insulin action at different levels in the intracellular pathway (Matsuzawa Y, 2005). Interleukin-6 (IL-6) is ano ther inflammatory cytokine released by adipose tissue and its levels are increased in obesity (Matsuzawa Y, 2005). IL-6 stimulates the hepatic production of C-reactive protein and this can explain the state of inflammation associated with obesity, and could mediate, at least partially, obesity-related insulin resistance (Matsuzawa Y, 2005). Data based mainly on animal studies also suggest that increased levels of resistin, another molecule produced by adipose tissue, could impair insulin sensitivity (Matsuzawa Y, 2005). The close relationship between Leptin levels and insulin resistance in children has also been suggested by the data (Chu NF et al, 2000). Serum levels of retinol-binding protein 4 (RBP4) correlate with insulin resistance in subjects with obesity as well as in those with impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) or type 2 diabetes mellitus, therefore suggesting that it could be useful in assessing insulin resistance and the associated risk for complications (Graham TE et al, 2006). Serum RBP4 is independently related to obesity as well as to components of the metabolic syndrome in normal weight and overweight children (Aeberli I et al, 2007). Diet composition in obese children might be an additional factor promoting and/or worsening insulin resistance. Animal and human studies suggest that a high energy intake as well as a diet rich in fat and carbohydrates and low in fiber could increase the risk of developing insulin resistance (Canete R et al, 2007). The Role of Fat Distribution An altered partitioning of fat between subcutaneous and visceral or ectopic sites has been associated with insulin resistance (Weiss R and Kaufman FR, 2008). Visceral fat has a better correlation with insulin sensitivity than subcutaneous or total body fat (Caprio S et al, 1995), in both obese adults and children. Visceral fat has higher lipolytic activity compared with subcutaneous fat, therefore a greater amount of free fatty acids and glycerol gain entry or carried out to the liver (Matthaei et al, 2000). Visceral fat in girls is directly correlated to the glucose-stimulated insulin levels and inversely correlated with insulin sensitivity and the rate of glucose uptake. No correlation was found between abdominal subcutaneous fat (Caprio S et al, 1995). Ectopic deposition of fat in the liver or muscle can also be responsible for insulin resistance in obese subjects, as the accumulation of fat in these sites impairs insulin signaling, with a reduced glucose uptake in the muscle and a decreased insulin-mediated suppression of hepatic glucose production (Weiss R and Kaufman FR, 2008). Intramyocellular lipid (IMCL) accumulation has been shown as a factor related to decreased insulin sensitivity (Jacob S et al, 1999 and Thamer C et al, 2003). Obese insulin sensitive children and adolescents present lower levels of visceral fat and IMCL when compared with obese insulin resistant children (Weiss R et al, 2005). Accumulation of fat in the liver has also been associated with insulin resistance, independently of adiposity (Kelley DE et al, 2003). It has also been suggested that deposits of fat around blood vessels can produce several cytokines and therefore contribute to the development of insulin resistance, through a so-called vasocrine effect (Yudkin JS et al, 2005). Insulin Resistance and Associated Complications Insulin resistance in obesity is strictly related to the development of hypertension (Marcovecchio ML et al, 2006 and Cruz ML et al, 2002), dyslipidemia (Howard BV and Howard WJ, 1994), impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) (Sinha R et al, 2002), hepatic steatosis (DAdamo E et al, 2008), as well as to the combination of these factors, also known as metabolic syndrome (Eckel RH et al, 2005). Furthermore, insulin resistance is associated with systemic inflammation, endothelial dysfunction, early atherosclerosis and disordered fibrinolysis (Dan Dona P et al, 2002). It is alarming that these metabolic and cardiovascular complications are already found in obese children and adolescents (Dietz WH, 2004). The presence of these alterations in prepubertal children is then particularly worrying, as insulin resistance and related complications might be further exacerbated by the influence of puberty, due to the physiological decrease in insulin sensitivity associated with normal pubertal development (Caprio S et al, 1989). Insulin resistance in childhood can track in adult life (Sinaiko AR et al, 2006). Insulin resistance at the age of 13 years predicts insulin resistance at age 19 years, independently of BMI, and is also associated with cardiovascular risk in adulthood (Sinaiko AR et al, 2006). The fundamental role of insulin resistance in human disease was already recognized in 1988 by Reaven (Reaven GM, 1988) who emphasized its role in the development of a grouping of metabolic abnormalities, which he defined as syndrome X. Later studies strengthened the concept of insulin resistance as a key component of the metabolic syndrome, a cluster of impaired glucose tolerance (IGT), dyslipidemia, hypertension, hyperinsulinemia, associated with an increased risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular disease (Eckel RH et al, 2005). Insulin resistance represents a serious and common complication of obesity during childhood and adolescence. A timely diagnosis and an appropriated prevention and treatment of obesity and insulin resistance are required in order to reduce the Biochemical and Hormonal Changes in Childhood Obesity Biochemical and Hormonal Changes in Childhood Obesity The prevalence of chronic or non communicable disease is escalating much more rapidly in developing countries than in industrialized countries. According to World Health Organization (WHO) estimates, by the 2020, non communicable diseases will account for approximately three quarter of all deaths in the developing countries (WHO. Global Strategy for non communicable disease prevention, 1997). In this regard, a potential emerging public health issue for the developing countries may be increasing incidence of childhood obesity with associated complications, which in turn is likely to create public health burden for poorer nations in the near future (Freedman et al, 2001). Lower to middle income nations face the double burden of having both malnourished and over nourished population, with most overweight and obese children being concentrated in urban areas. Rapid urbanization is associated with unhealthy lifestyle or New World Syndrome. In addition, in such communities, childhood obesit y is still considered a sign of healthiness and high social class. There is no universal consensus on a cut off points for defining overweight and obesity in children and adolescents, usually, for clinical practice and epidemiological studies, child overweight and obesity are assessed by means of indicators based on weight and height measurements, such as weight for height measures or body mass index (weight (kg)/height (m2))(WHO. Report series no.847, 1995).The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) defines obese as being at or above 95th percentile of body mass index for age (Kuczmarsk RJ et al, 2000). History of obesity is both interesting and gives details of its progression. Obesity is an age-old health condition. Through out the history of obesity, its reputation varies from appreciation and opposite among cultures and in time. Ancient Egyptians are said to consider obesity as disease. Perhaps the most famous and earliest evidence of obesity is the Venus figurines, Statuettes of an obese female torso that probably had a major role in rituals. Ancient China has also been aware of obesity and dangers that come with it. They always were a believer of prevention as a key to longevity. The Aztecs believed that obesity was supernatural, an affliction of the gods. Hippocrates, the father of medicines was aware of sudden deaths being more common among obese men than lean ones as stated in his writings. In certain cultures and areas where food is scarce and poverty is prevalent, is viewed as symbol of wealth and social status. To date, an African tribe purposely plumps up a bride to pre pare her for child bearing. Before a wedding can be set, a slim bride is pampered to gain weight until she reaches the suitable weight. Through out the history of obesity, the publics view and status of obesity changed considerably in the 1900s. It was regarded as unfashionable by the French designer, Paul Poi ret who designed skin-revealing clothes for women. About the same time, the incidence of obesity began to increase and become wide spread. Later in 1940s, Metropolitan life insurance published a chart of ideal weight for various heights. They also advocated that weight gain parallel to age is unhealthy. The government and medical society become more hands-on with obesity by imitating campaign against it. This was preceded by a study of risk factors for cardiovascular disease revealing obesity in the high ranks. Since then various diets and exercise programs have emerged. In 1996, the Body Mass Index (BMI) was published. This statistical calculation and index determined that a person is obese or not. At this time ,obesity incidence have soared, led by children and adolescent obesity, tripling in just a few short years, greater than any number in the history of obesity. This increase in the incidence of childhood obesity with associated cardiovascular risks, type 2 diabetes mellitus and stroke is supported by a considerable body of evidence. The prevalence of overweight and obesity in childhood and adolescents has been increasing throughout much of the developed and developing world for the past few decades. It has become increasingly clear that excess adiposity in childhood predisposes individual not only to increased risk of adiposity and its sequaele as adults (Freedman et al, 2001), but also to increased risk of multiple chronic diseases in childhood and adolescence (Rosen bloom et al, 1999). Though mechanism not clearly delineated, excess body weight and adiposity is associated with type 2 diabetes mellitus and its complications, cardiovascular disease risk factors, non alcoholic fatty liver disease and asthma in youth. Childhood Obesity 1930 1972 Risk factors for coronary heart disease (CHD) such as hypertension, dyslipidemia, impaired glucose tolerance and vascular abnormalities were present in overweight children. CHD is likely to be increased in overweight children when they become adults as a result of established risk factors. This study investigated whether excess weight in childhood was associated with CHD in adulthood among a very large cohort of persons born in Denmark in 1930 through 1972. They underwent mandatory annual health examination at public or private schools in Copenhagen. Each child was examined by school doctors or nurses and was assigned a health card bearing childs name, date of birth, birth weight reported by parents. 10,235 men and 4,318 women, for whom childhood BMI data were available, received a diagnosis of CHD or died of CHD as adults. The risk of CHD event, a non fatal event, and a fatal event among adults was positively associated with BMI at 7-13 years of age for boys and 10 to 13 years of ag e as girls. The associations were linear for each age and risk increased across the entire BMI distribution. Childhood Obesity 1930 1972 Risk factors for coronary heart disease (CHD) such as hypertension, dyslipidemia, impaired glucose tolerance and vascular abnormalities were present in overweight children. CHD is likely to be increased in overweight children when they become adults as a result of established risk factors. This study investigated whether excess weight in childhood was associated with CHD in adulthood among a very large cohort of persons born in Denmark in 1930 through 1972. They underwent mandatory annual health examination at public or private schools in Copenhagen. Each child was examined by school doctors or nurses and was assigned a health card bearing childs name, date of birth, birth weight reported by parents. 10,235 men and 4,318 women, for whom childhood BMI data were available, received a diagnosis of CHD or died of CHD as adults. The risk of CHD event, a non fatal event, and a fatal event among adults was positively associated with BMI at 7-13 years of age for boys and 10 to 13 years of ag e as girls. The associations were linear for each age and risk increased across the entire BMI distribution. Childhood Obesity and Economic Growth 1930-1983 Childhood obesity was related to the economic growth during the 50 years of economic growth in the industrialized world especially in Denmark. Annual measurements of height and weight were available for all children born between 1930 and 1983 attending primary schools in Copenhagen Municipality. 165,389 boys and 163,609 girls from the age of 7 through 13 years were included in this study. After computerization SBMI (kg/m2) were calculated and the prevalence of overweight and obesity according to international age and genderââ¬âspecific criteria. Economics growth was indicated by the Gross National Product and the overall consumption per capita, adjusted for inflation. Prevalence of overweight and obesity among Danish children rose in phases, which were not paralleled by trends in economic growth. The microeconomics growth indicators seem inappropriate as proxies for the environmental exposures that have elicited the obesity epidemic. Childhood obesity and television viewing Children spend a substantial portion of their lives watching television (TV). Investigators have hypothesized that TV viewing causes obesity by one or more than three mechanisms: Displacement of physical activity. Increased calorie consumption while watching or caused by the effects of advertising. Reduced resting metabolism. The relationship between TV viewing and obesity has been examined in a relatively large number of cross sectional epidemiological but few longitudinal studies. Many of them have found relatively weak, positive association or mixed results. Many experimental studies have found that reducing TV viewing may help to reduce the risk of obesity. One school based experimental study was designed specifically to test directly the casual relationship between TV viewing behaviors and body fatness. The results of this randomized controlled trial provide evidence that TV viewing is a cause of increased body fatness and that reducing the TV viewing is a promising strategy for preventing childhood obesity (Robinson; 2001). The objective of another study (Utter J et al, 2006), was to explore how time spent watching television (TV) is associated with the dietary behavior of New Zealand children and young adolescents. Total number of participants was 3275 children aged 5-17 years. The findings suggest that longer duration of TV watching (thus more frequent exposure to advertising) influences the frequency of consumption of soft drinks, some sweets and snacks and some fast foods among children and young adolescents. Efforts to control the time spent watching TV may result in better dietary habits and weight control for children and adolescents. Childhood Obesity US- A decade of progress, 1990-1999 Current data suggest that 20% of US children are overweight .An analysis of the secular trends suggest that 20% of US children are overweight, and a clear up ward trend in body weight in children of 0.2 Kg between 1973 and 1994. In addition, childhood obesity is more prevalent among minority sub groups such as African Americans. Obesity that begins early in life persists into adulthood and increases the risk of obesity related conditions later in life. There has been tremendous increase in the number of studies examining the etiology and health effects of obesity in children (Goran MI, 1990-1999).1980 (boys 0.2% girls 0.5%) and 1997 (boys 1.2%, girls 2.0%). Ten years trends of childhood obesity in Israel 1990-2000 Cross sectional data was collected from 13284 second and fifth class school; children between 1990-2000. Prevalence of obesity was determined using Israeli and US reference values. BMI values at 95th percentile increased overtime in all ages and sex categories. Between 1990 and 2000, 95th centile values were increased by 12.7%and 11.8% among second grade boys and girls respectively. Among fifth graders in 2000, 10.7% of boys and 11.1% of girls exceeded the 1990 BMI reference values. The proportion of obese children increased over time using both Israeli and US reference values (Huerta Michael et al, 2008). Netherlands. Overweight, Obesity in 2003: V.1980-97. Data on 90,071 children, aged 4-16 years were routinely collected by 11 Community Heath Services during 2002-2004. International cut -off points for BMI to determine overweight and obesity. On average, 14.5% of boys and 17.5% of the girls were overweight (including obesity), which is a substantial increase since 1980 (boys 3.9% and girls 6.9%) and 1997 (boys 9.7% and girls 13%). Similarly 2.6% of the boys and 3.3% 0f the girls aged 4-16 years were obese, which is much higher than in 1980 (boys 0.2% and girls 0.5%) and 1997 (boys 1.2% and girls 2.0%), (KatjaVan Den Husk, 2007). Obesity trends in US. 2003-2006 Height and weight measurements were obtained from 8164 children and adolescents as apart of the 2003-2004 and 2005-2006 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Because no statistically significant differences in the prevalence of high BMI for age were found between the estimates for 2003-2004 and 2005-2006, data for four years were combined to provide more stable estimates for the most recent time period. Over all, in 2003-2006, 11.3% of children and adolescents aged 2 through years were at or above 97th percentile of the 2000 BMI- for- age growth charts, 16.3% were at or above 95th percentile. Prevalence estimates vary by age and by racial/ethnic group. Analysis of the trends in high BMI for age showed no statistically significant trend over the four time periods (1999-2000, 2001-2002, 2003-2004, and 2005-2006) for either boys or girls (Cynthia l.Ogden et al, 2008). 11-March 2005. Public Release Date: Consensus on Childhood Obesity, Recommends classification as disease A common statement on childhood obesity was published to day in the journal of Chemical Endocrinology and Metabolism (one of the journals of Endocrine Society). The consensus statement reflects the conclusions from an international summit held in Israel last year (2004) and includes a controversial recommendation to classify obesity as a disease. This decision was based upon the available research on the diagnosis, prevalence, causes (including endocrine disorders), risks, prevention and treatment of childhood obesity. Pediatric obesity is now recognized as a major health problem all over the world. Researcher have found that children who are obese have a higher risks adult obesity, which is strongly associated with many serious medical complications that impair quality of life and lead to additional increased risks. The statement also noted the prevalence of overweight/obesity among children 6-11 years (in the US) doubled between the years 1980-2000. By classifying obesity as legiti mate disease, public funding and in user sreimbursement for obesity treatment becomes legalized (consensus on childhood obesity, 2005). Serious health risks will likely to begin to appear in obese children and adolescents as they grow older. These may include diabetes mellitus, metabolic syndrome, hyperandrogenism, heart disease, hypertension, respiratory factors, and sleep disorders. Obese children are also at greater risk of anxiety and depression. It also recommended a number of measures that can be implemented by parents; schools, health providers and government and regulatory agencies to help to prevent the onset of childhood obesity Endocrine Regulation of Energy Metabolism Adipocytokines and Obesity The mechanism underlying obesity was further explained by the discovery of adipocytokines, the role of peripheral thyroid hormones (T4, T3), thyroid stimulating hormone and insulin the regulation of energy metabolism. The levels of some of the adipocytokines were shown to be related to visceral obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus and coronary artery disease. Plasma levels of all the adipocytokines increase with the obesity except adiponectin (Yuji Matsuzawa et al, 2003). Recent studies point out to the adipose tissue as a highly active organ secreting a range of hormones, Leptin, Adiponectin, and Resistin. They are considered to take part in the regulation of energy metabolism. Leptin, Adiponectin and Resistin are produced by the adipose tissue. Leptin and Adiponectin are insulin sensitizing while Resistin increase the insulin resistance. Leptin The notion that genetic abnormalities contribute to obesity gained important support with the identification of the Ob gene and its protein product in 1994 (Zhangy et al, 1996). The Ob gene termed Leptin from the Greek Leptos, meaning thin, is produced in adipose tissue and is thought to act as an afferent satiety signal in a feed back loop that affects the appetite and satiety centre in the hypothalamus of brain. The ultimate effect of this loop is to regulate body-fat mass. In human, as noted by Considine et al, 1996; caloric restriction reduces leptin concentrations and Ob mRNA levels in adipose tissue, and refeeding increases these levels. One fundamental mechanism of obesity is insensitivity to the action of Leptin, presumably in the hypothalamus. The Leptins primary physiological function is to provide a signal to suppress body fat by decreasing food intake or increasing energy expenditure. Serum leptin concentrations change more during weight loss than during weight gain (Rose nbaum M et al, 1997). Adiponectin Adiponectin or Adipo Q, an adipocyte specific secreted protein with roles in glucose and lipid homeostasis (Insulin stimulates the secretion of adiponectin). Circulating adiponectin concentrations are high 500-30,000 à µg/l (5-30mg/ml) accounting for 0.01% of total plasma proteins (Berget et al, 2002). Adiponectin was discovered in the mid 1990s by four different groups of researchers (Hu E et al, 1996). Adiponectin has various biological functions including insulin sensitizing (Hotta K et al, 2000), antiatherogenic (Yamauchi T et al, 2003), anti-inflammatory (Ouchi N et al, 2003), antiangiogenic and anti tumor functions (Brakenhielm E et al, 2004). Adiponectin acts through Adiponectin receptors, Adipo R1 and Adipo R2. Adipo R1 is mostly expressed in skeletal muscles and Adipo R2 is abundant in liver. These receptors are also expressed by the pancreatic ß cells (Kharroubi et al, 2003), macrophages and atherosclerotic lesions (Chinetti et al, 2004) as well as in brain (Yamauchi et al, 2003). Circulating Adiponectin levels display diurnal variation with a nocturnal decline and maximum levels in the late morning (Gavrila et al, 2003). Adiponectin is also found in breast milk, which in turn is implicated in childhood obesity prevention (Savino et al, 2008). Among the various adipocytokines, adiponectin, which is an abundant circulating protein (247 amino acids) synthesized purely in adipose tissue, appears to play a very important role in carbohydrates, lipid metabolism and vascular biology. Adiponectin appears to be a major modulator of insulin action and its levels are reduced in type 2 diabetes mellitus, which could contribute to peripheral insulin resistance in this condition. It has significant insulin sensitizing as well as anti inflammatory properties that include suppression of macrophage phagocytosis and TNF-a secretion and blockage of monocytes adhesion to endothelial cells in vitro. Although further investigations are required, Adiponectin administration, as well as regulation of the pathway controlling its production, represents a promising target for managing obesity, hyperlipidemia, insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes mellitus, and vascular inflammation (Manju Chandran et al, 2003). Resistin Human resistin is 108 amino acids prepeptide and is cleaved before its secretion from the Adipose tissue. Resistin circulates in the blood as dimeric protein consisting of 92 amino acids polypeptides that are linked by a disulfide bridge. Holcomb et al, 2000 first described the gene family and its tissue specific distribution. Originally described as lung specific, is also produced by the adipose tissue and peripheral blood monocytes. It is also present in dividing epithelia of the intestine. Resistin increase blood glucose and insulin concentration in the mice and impairs hypoglycemic response to insulin infusion. In addition, anti resistin antibodies decrease blood glucose and insulin sensitivity in obese mice (Ukkalo O, 2002). The physiological role of resistin in human remains controversial. There more resistin protein in obese than lean individuals, with a significant positive correlation between resistin and BMI. BMI is a significant predictor of insulin resistance, but resisti n adjusted for BMI is not. These data demonstrate that resistin protein is present in human adipose tissue and blood and that there is significantly more resistin in serum of obese individuals. Serum resistin is not a significant predictor of insulin resistance in human (Youn et al, 2003, Rear R and Donnelly R, 2004). Tumor Necrosis Factor-a It will be unreasonable not to mention the Tumor Necrosis Factor a and its role in vascular inflammation related to atherosclerosis especially in obesity. It is a cytokine involved in systemic inflammation and is a member of a group of cytokines that stimulate the acute phase reaction. The primary role of TNF is in the regulation of immune cells. TNF is able to induce apoptotic cell death, to induce inflammation and to inhibit tumourgenesis and viral replication. Dysregulation and, in particular, over production of TNF have been implicated in a variety of human diseases, as well as cancer (Locksley et al, 2001). The theory of antitumoural response of the immune system in vivo was recognized by the physician William B in 1968. Dr A Granger reported a cytotoxic factor produced by lymphocytes and named it Lymphotoxin (Kalli WB and Granger GA, 1968). Dr L Loyal old, in 1975 reported another cytotoxic factor produced by macrophages and named it Tumor Necrosis Factor (TNF) (Cars well et al, 1975). Interleukin ââ¬â 6 (IL-6) Chronic inflammation is linked to endothelial dysfunction, atherosclerosis, and insulin resistance (Fernandez-Real JM and Ricart W, 2003 and Fernandez-Real JM, Ricart W, 2005). Plasma concentrations of proinflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin (IL) 18, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-a, and of several other inflammatory markers are increased in patients with ischemic heart disease (Fernandez-Real JM and Ricart W, 2003, Ridker PM et al, 2002, Engstrom G et al, 2004, Ridker PM et al, 1997, Pradham AD et al, 2002). Circulating cytokines also are elevated in type 2 diabetes, obesity, and insulin resistance syndrome and play a central role in the pathogenesis of these disorders (Fernandez-Real JM and Ricart W, 2003). IL-6 is a mediator of the inflammatory response, and it is linked to dyslipidemia, type 2 diabetes, and risk of myocardial infarction (Fernandez-Real JM and Ricart W, 2003, Ridker PM et al, 2000, Esteve E et al, 2005, Yudkin JS et al, 2000). IL-6 is secreted by a variety of different cell types, including lymphoid and endothelial cells, fibroblasts, skeletal muscle, and adipose tissue. Circulating IL-6 levels correlate with obesity and insulin resistance and may predict the development of type 2 diabetes mellitus (Yudkin JS et al, 2000, Pradhan AD et al, 2001, Akira S et al, 1993, Mohamed-Ali V et al, 1997). Endothelial dysfunction is regarded as a causal factor in the development of atherosclerosis (Hansson GK, 2005). It is one of the earliest abnormalities that can be detected in people at risk for cardiovascular events, and it is linked to insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes (Steinberg HO and Baron AD, 2002, Natali A et al, 2006). Cytokines have an important role in the endothelial injury induced by inflammation. The vascular endothelium is involved in the inflammatory response to atherosclerosis (Hansson GK, 2005, Steinberg HO and Baron AD, 2002, Natali A et al, 2006, Widlansky ME et al, 2003), and changes in endothelium function could underlie the association between cardiovascular disease and inflammation. Obesity Related Insulin Resistance: Definition and Pathogenesis Insulin resistance is a state in which a given amount of insulin produces a subnormal biological response (Kahn CR, 1978). In particular, it is characterized by a decrease in the ability of insulin to stimulate the use of glucose by muscles and adipose tissue and to suppress hepatic glucose production and output (Matthaei et al, 2000). Furthermore, it accounts a resistance to insulin action on protein and lipid metabolism and on vascular endothelial function and genes expression (Bajaj M and Defronzo RA, 2003). Several defects in the insulin signaling cascade have been implicated in the pathogenesis of insulin resistance, Insulin resistance is believed to have both genetic and environmental factors implicated in its etiology (Matthaei et al, 2000 and Liu et al, 2004). The genetic component seems to be polygenic in nature, and several genes have been suggested as potential candidates (Matthaei et al, 2000). However, several other factors can influence insulin sensitivity, such as obesity, ethnicity, gender, perinatal factors, puberty, sedentary lifestyle and diet (Liu et al, 2004). The Role of Fatty Acids and Adipocytokines Obesity represents the major risk factor for the development of insulin resistance in children and adolescents (Caprio S, 2002), and insulin resistance/hyperinsulinemia is believed to be an important link between obesity and the associated metabolic abnormalities and cardiovascular risk (Weiss R and Kaufman FR, 2008). Approximately, 55% of the variance in insulin sensitivity in children can be explained by total adiposity, after adjusting for other confounders, such as age, gender, ethnicity and pubertal stage (Caprio S, 2002). Obese children have hyperinsulinemia and peripheral insulin resistance with an ~40% lower insulin-stimulated glucose metabolism than non-obese children (Caprio S et al, 19996). Adipose tissue seems to play a key role in the pathogenesis of insulin resistance through several released metabolites, hormones and adipocytokines that can affect different steps in insulin action (Matsuzawa Y, 2005) (Fig. 1). Adipocytes produce non-esterified fatty acids, which inhibit carbohydrate metabolism via substrate competition and impaired intracellular insulin signaling (Matsuzawa Y, 2005, Griffin ME et al 1999 and Randle PJ, 1998). In children, as in adults, several adipocytokines have been related to adiposity indexes as well as to insulin resistance. Adiponectin is one of the most common cytokines produced by adipose tissue, with an important insulin sensitizing effect associated with anti-atherogenetic properties (Despres JP, 2006 and Gil-Campos M et al, 2004). Whereas obesity is generally associated with an increased release of metabolites by adipose tissue, levels of Adiponectin are inversely related to adiposity (Matsuzawa Y, 2005). Therefore, reduced levels of this adipocytokine have been implicated in the pathogenesis of insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome (Matsuzawa Y, 2005). Decreased levels of Adiponectin have been detected across tertiles of insulin resistance in children and adolescents (Weiss R et al, 2004), where it is a good predictor of insulin sensitivity, independently of adiposity (Lee S et al, 2006). Adipose tissue also produces tumour necrosis factor-a, an inflammatory factor, which can alter insulin action at different levels in the intracellular pathway (Matsuzawa Y, 2005). Interleukin-6 (IL-6) is ano ther inflammatory cytokine released by adipose tissue and its levels are increased in obesity (Matsuzawa Y, 2005). IL-6 stimulates the hepatic production of C-reactive protein and this can explain the state of inflammation associated with obesity, and could mediate, at least partially, obesity-related insulin resistance (Matsuzawa Y, 2005). Data based mainly on animal studies also suggest that increased levels of resistin, another molecule produced by adipose tissue, could impair insulin sensitivity (Matsuzawa Y, 2005). The close relationship between Leptin levels and insulin resistance in children has also been suggested by the data (Chu NF et al, 2000). Serum levels of retinol-binding protein 4 (RBP4) correlate with insulin resistance in subjects with obesity as well as in those with impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) or type 2 diabetes mellitus, therefore suggesting that it could be useful in assessing insulin resistance and the associated risk for complications (Graham TE et al, 2006). Serum RBP4 is independently related to obesity as well as to components of the metabolic syndrome in normal weight and overweight children (Aeberli I et al, 2007). Diet composition in obese children might be an additional factor promoting and/or worsening insulin resistance. Animal and human studies suggest that a high energy intake as well as a diet rich in fat and carbohydrates and low in fiber could increase the risk of developing insulin resistance (Canete R et al, 2007). The Role of Fat Distribution An altered partitioning of fat between subcutaneous and visceral or ectopic sites has been associated with insulin resistance (Weiss R and Kaufman FR, 2008). Visceral fat has a better correlation with insulin sensitivity than subcutaneous or total body fat (Caprio S et al, 1995), in both obese adults and children. Visceral fat has higher lipolytic activity compared with subcutaneous fat, therefore a greater amount of free fatty acids and glycerol gain entry or carried out to the liver (Matthaei et al, 2000). Visceral fat in girls is directly correlated to the glucose-stimulated insulin levels and inversely correlated with insulin sensitivity and the rate of glucose uptake. No correlation was found between abdominal subcutaneous fat (Caprio S et al, 1995). Ectopic deposition of fat in the liver or muscle can also be responsible for insulin resistance in obese subjects, as the accumulation of fat in these sites impairs insulin signaling, with a reduced glucose uptake in the muscle and a decreased insulin-mediated suppression of hepatic glucose production (Weiss R and Kaufman FR, 2008). Intramyocellular lipid (IMCL) accumulation has been shown as a factor related to decreased insulin sensitivity (Jacob S et al, 1999 and Thamer C et al, 2003). Obese insulin sensitive children and adolescents present lower levels of visceral fat and IMCL when compared with obese insulin resistant children (Weiss R et al, 2005). Accumulation of fat in the liver has also been associated with insulin resistance, independently of adiposity (Kelley DE et al, 2003). It has also been suggested that deposits of fat around blood vessels can produce several cytokines and therefore contribute to the development of insulin resistance, through a so-called vasocrine effect (Yudkin JS et al, 2005). Insulin Resistance and Associated Complications Insulin resistance in obesity is strictly related to the development of hypertension (Marcovecchio ML et al, 2006 and Cruz ML et al, 2002), dyslipidemia (Howard BV and Howard WJ, 1994), impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) (Sinha R et al, 2002), hepatic steatosis (DAdamo E et al, 2008), as well as to the combination of these factors, also known as metabolic syndrome (Eckel RH et al, 2005). Furthermore, insulin resistance is associated with systemic inflammation, endothelial dysfunction, early atherosclerosis and disordered fibrinolysis (Dan Dona P et al, 2002). It is alarming that these metabolic and cardiovascular complications are already found in obese children and adolescents (Dietz WH, 2004). The presence of these alterations in prepubertal children is then particularly worrying, as insulin resistance and related complications might be further exacerbated by the influence of puberty, due to the physiological decrease in insulin sensitivity associated with normal pubertal development (Caprio S et al, 1989). Insulin resistance in childhood can track in adult life (Sinaiko AR et al, 2006). Insulin resistance at the age of 13 years predicts insulin resistance at age 19 years, independently of BMI, and is also associated with cardiovascular risk in adulthood (Sinaiko AR et al, 2006). The fundamental role of insulin resistance in human disease was already recognized in 1988 by Reaven (Reaven GM, 1988) who emphasized its role in the development of a grouping of metabolic abnormalities, which he defined as syndrome X. Later studies strengthened the concept of insulin resistance as a key component of the metabolic syndrome, a cluster of impaired glucose tolerance (IGT), dyslipidemia, hypertension, hyperinsulinemia, associated with an increased risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular disease (Eckel RH et al, 2005). Insulin resistance represents a serious and common complication of obesity during childhood and adolescence. A timely diagnosis and an appropriated prevention and treatment of obesity and insulin resistance are required in order to reduce the
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