Get the Lead Out
Lead disturbs the way almost all of the neurotransmitters in the brain perform, according to Dr. David Bellinger, PhD. (Farley, par. 10). Extreme exposure to lead can cause seizures, comas, or death. Recent recalls of children's toys containing unsafe amounts of lead, has instilled fear into the minds of Americans, especially those with children. Although the American public appears quick to blame China for this horrifying occurrence, the truth is a substantial number of lead dangers may be found right here in the United States. Since the 1960s, the U. S. government has been implementing programs to cut down on, and eventually eliminate, the unnecessary use of lead in the manufacturing industry. These programs have greatly reduced the amount of lead people are exposed to on a daily basis. However, considerable damage has already been done. The potential for lead poisoning is still all around us. The use of lead in the manufacturing of items has left the environment toxic and is harming both children and adults as a result.
Lead used in manufacturing processes has polluted the environment. Homes in the past have been coated inside and outside with paints that contain lead. Water pipes, drinking fountains, solder, foil wine bottle capsules, and the seals of food cans have all been constructed with the use of lead. Despite the fact that the practice of producing these items with lead has been outlawed, many of these objects are still contaminating our homes, work places, and schools. Leaded gasoline has not been in use since 1995, but it has caused an extensive amount of soil contamination, especially near roadways. Work sites are often prime locations for dangerous amounts of lead. Not only does this pose a risk for the worker; lead particles that are carried home to the worker’s family on clothing and shoes are a threat as well. Animals are also affected by lead toxicity because of the fact that it poisons the nervous systems of all warm-blooded vertebrates, not just those of human beings (Leibert, par.1). Air, soil, bodies of water, plants, and meat-sources have the potential to be contaminated with lead.
Children are especially vulnerable to the hazards of lead exposure. In 1998, almost one million children younger than the age of six were found to have potentially damaging blood lead levels (Farley, par. 11). The recent discovery of unsafe levels of lead in several toys and jewelry items that have been promoted to children has prompted the California Public Interest Research Group to push the federal government to implement legislation to prohibit any more lead than trace amounts in toys (Kucher, par. 5). In children, 30 to 75 percent of lead that reaches the digestive tract is absorbed, 50 percent of inhaled lead particles are absorbed, and less than 1 percent of lead that has come in contact with skin is absorbed (Farley, par. 10). However, children frequently put their hands to their mouths, increasing the chances of ingestion. Exposure to dust and chips from deteriorating lead paint is the main cause of lead poisoning in children (EPA 2). Because of this, children living in older homes have been shown to have higher levels of blood lead than those living in newer homes (Farley, par. 11). Neurological and memory problems, hearing impairment, decreased growth, and muscle pain and coordination issues are some of the results of increased blood lead levels in children. Premature birth, low birth weight, stillbirth, and miscarriage of infants are major concerns for pregnant mothers who have had too much exposure to lead.
Adults are not immune to the harm caused by lead. They are exposed to the same lead toxins as children are exposed to, albeit in different amounts. Cosmetics, gradual hair dyes, foil wine capsules and certain foreign digestive remedies are all culprits of lead poisoning in adults. Even nutritional supplements may contain high levels of lead. Unlike children, adults only absorb approximately 11 percent of lead through digestion (Farley, par. 10). But they still face serious risks when exposed to lead. Trouble recalling recently learned skills, bizarre behavior, altered consciousness, high blood pressure, and damage to reproductive organs are some of the problems of adults who have experienced lead poisoning. Unfortunately, the damage may not be reversible.
The environment has been negatively affected by the use of lead in manufacturing processes. Air, water, and soil have been contaminated, along with animal and plant life. Children are suffering the consequences of exposure to this poisonous substance. Adults are being forced to look for solutions to rid the planet of the effects of this toxic menace, while dealing with health issues it may have caused them as well. The use of lead by the manufacturing industry has left behind problems for the environment, children, and adults that need to be addressed.
Tuesday, December 4, 2007
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
Deadline 18, Outline
Thesis statement: The use of lead in the manufacturing of items has left the environment toxic and is harming both children and adults as a result.
I. Damaging to environment
II. Hazardous to children
III. Harmful to adults
Conclusion: The use of lead by the manufacturing industry has left behind problems for the environment, children, and adults that need to be addressed.
I. Damaging to environment
II. Hazardous to children
III. Harmful to adults
Conclusion: The use of lead by the manufacturing industry has left behind problems for the environment, children, and adults that need to be addressed.
Tuesday, November 20, 2007
Deadline #17
A cause and effect essay investigates causes or provides a prediction or depiction of results. Transitional words and phrases such as because, as a result, a more important result, one cause, and another cause are transitional words and phrases used in cause and effect essays. “The foundation of an excellent musician is based upon the amount of practice, private lessons taken, and participation in performances,” the last sentence of the first paragraph, is the thesis of the essay. Saying that practice, lessons, and performing are the foundation of making a musician, indicate the author will be analyzing what causes a musician to become exceptional. The author’s tone in the essay is straight-forward and a bit serious, but not overly serious. The author uses specific examples to support her analysis. The examples helped to give me a clearer understanding of the point she was trying to make. However, after all, instead, and in addition are some of the transitions used in the essay. The author of the cause and effect essay explains how certain actions cause a person to become an excellent musician.
Friday, November 16, 2007
Deadline #16, Argument Rough Draft
Keep Analog Alive
New laws are forcing Americans to change the way they watch television, talk on the phone, and listen to music. Citizens are being bombarded with the message that the new digital technology is better than the old analog technology. In February of 2009, analog television broadcasts will be completely replaced by digital broadcasts on the airwaves, freeing 60MHz of wave-space to be auctioned to wireless mobile carriers (HDTV Info Port). Although digital technology has its benefits, it is not a good substitute for analog in all situations. Analog technology must remain a viable tool for television, telephone, and sound recording uses, even as digital technology increases.
The original tools for transmitting video and sound were analog based. Analog technology refers to the changing of video or audio signal into electronic pulses. It is time-tested and inexpensive to use. Because of a long history of availability, analog equipment such as television sets, telephones, and some recording devices are low-cost as well. Television has been broadcasting analog video and audio signals since its very beginning. The warm, realistic pictures and sounds that come across airwaves into our homes can be attributed to analog broadcasting. Analog telephone lines provide American homes with the means to hear loved ones across the country, or even across the world, as if they were standing nearby. Because of the rich, warm tones of analog, it is the preferred medium for transmitting the human voice. Even professional recording studios equipped with digital technology still depend on the use of analog tape in order to produce the highest quality sound recordings.
In the 1980s, digital mediums for video and sound transmission began growing in availability and popularity. Digital technology can transmit more data than analog, and involves the use of binary code. This means the signal is divided into a sequence of 1s and 0s, broken down, and reassembled into the original signal by the digital apparatus. Due to the relatively new admission of digital tools into the world of technology, they are usually expensive. Digital television, also known as Standard Definition Television (SDTV), and not to be confused with the analog and digital capable High Definition Television (HDTV), provides a reliable signal with picture clarity (Cringely). However, the picture and sound are not as rich or realistic. Digital telephone lines are also available but used mostly in large corporations that require multiple lines and capabilities, not in the average smaller office, store, or home. If connected directly to a digital line, an analog device generally will not perform properly. The internal circuitry of an appliance may even be destroyed even though digital lines carry a lower voltage than analog lines (Wotel, par. 11). Benefits of digital telephone technology would include less distortion and eavesdropping on cordless phones and the capability of more people to talk on their cell phones at one time (Wotel, pars. 14 and 17). An aesthetic problem with digital phones is that it can make the voice being transmitted sound unrealistic or mechanical. In the audio recording realm, digital technology can be an asset as far as mass production, editing, and artificial enhancement are concerned. Nevertheless, there are extreme drawbacks to using exclusively digital gear for producing sound recordings. Besides the often obvious cut off of sound at the beginning of the initial note on a compact disc, the warm, realistic quality of a performance is not captured. For this reason, most professional recording studios rely heavily on analog tape for mastering recordings.
Changes are on the horizon for video and audio transmission. Although cable television companies may choose to supply either analog or digital television, the standard networks will be required by law to transmit only digital broadcasts as of February 2009. At the expense of tax payers, the U.S. government will provide each household with two vouchers towards the purchase of set-top digital to analog converter boxes. For those who choose to keep their analog televisions, the use of set-top-boxes along with an antenna will be necessary. The wave-space no longer used by analog television broadcasters will soon be filled with cell phone communication. A small portion of the airwaves will be allotted to emergency services, but the majority will be used by mobile phone companies. One argument for the use of digital technology in the sound recording industry is it does not require the use of tape, therefore does not contribute to the use of animal based products such as gelatin. This argument falls short though, as vegetable based gelatin is a feasible alternative. Those working in the recording industry are not likely to relinquish the use of analog recording anytime soon because of its superior sound quality. Instead, audiophiles are finding ways to use the two technologies together to enhance the enjoyment of sound recordings.
We have been served well for decades by analog technology. The newer digital technology is a promising means of transmitting video and audio. Each technology has its strengths and weaknesses. Newer is not always better. On the contrary, analog technology delivers superior sound quality and often a richer, more realistic picture than digital technology delivers, despite the clarity of digital transmissions. Analog technology needs to continue to be available because of the benefits it provides its users.
New laws are forcing Americans to change the way they watch television, talk on the phone, and listen to music. Citizens are being bombarded with the message that the new digital technology is better than the old analog technology. In February of 2009, analog television broadcasts will be completely replaced by digital broadcasts on the airwaves, freeing 60MHz of wave-space to be auctioned to wireless mobile carriers (HDTV Info Port). Although digital technology has its benefits, it is not a good substitute for analog in all situations. Analog technology must remain a viable tool for television, telephone, and sound recording uses, even as digital technology increases.
The original tools for transmitting video and sound were analog based. Analog technology refers to the changing of video or audio signal into electronic pulses. It is time-tested and inexpensive to use. Because of a long history of availability, analog equipment such as television sets, telephones, and some recording devices are low-cost as well. Television has been broadcasting analog video and audio signals since its very beginning. The warm, realistic pictures and sounds that come across airwaves into our homes can be attributed to analog broadcasting. Analog telephone lines provide American homes with the means to hear loved ones across the country, or even across the world, as if they were standing nearby. Because of the rich, warm tones of analog, it is the preferred medium for transmitting the human voice. Even professional recording studios equipped with digital technology still depend on the use of analog tape in order to produce the highest quality sound recordings.
In the 1980s, digital mediums for video and sound transmission began growing in availability and popularity. Digital technology can transmit more data than analog, and involves the use of binary code. This means the signal is divided into a sequence of 1s and 0s, broken down, and reassembled into the original signal by the digital apparatus. Due to the relatively new admission of digital tools into the world of technology, they are usually expensive. Digital television, also known as Standard Definition Television (SDTV), and not to be confused with the analog and digital capable High Definition Television (HDTV), provides a reliable signal with picture clarity (Cringely). However, the picture and sound are not as rich or realistic. Digital telephone lines are also available but used mostly in large corporations that require multiple lines and capabilities, not in the average smaller office, store, or home. If connected directly to a digital line, an analog device generally will not perform properly. The internal circuitry of an appliance may even be destroyed even though digital lines carry a lower voltage than analog lines (Wotel, par. 11). Benefits of digital telephone technology would include less distortion and eavesdropping on cordless phones and the capability of more people to talk on their cell phones at one time (Wotel, pars. 14 and 17). An aesthetic problem with digital phones is that it can make the voice being transmitted sound unrealistic or mechanical. In the audio recording realm, digital technology can be an asset as far as mass production, editing, and artificial enhancement are concerned. Nevertheless, there are extreme drawbacks to using exclusively digital gear for producing sound recordings. Besides the often obvious cut off of sound at the beginning of the initial note on a compact disc, the warm, realistic quality of a performance is not captured. For this reason, most professional recording studios rely heavily on analog tape for mastering recordings.
Changes are on the horizon for video and audio transmission. Although cable television companies may choose to supply either analog or digital television, the standard networks will be required by law to transmit only digital broadcasts as of February 2009. At the expense of tax payers, the U.S. government will provide each household with two vouchers towards the purchase of set-top digital to analog converter boxes. For those who choose to keep their analog televisions, the use of set-top-boxes along with an antenna will be necessary. The wave-space no longer used by analog television broadcasters will soon be filled with cell phone communication. A small portion of the airwaves will be allotted to emergency services, but the majority will be used by mobile phone companies. One argument for the use of digital technology in the sound recording industry is it does not require the use of tape, therefore does not contribute to the use of animal based products such as gelatin. This argument falls short though, as vegetable based gelatin is a feasible alternative. Those working in the recording industry are not likely to relinquish the use of analog recording anytime soon because of its superior sound quality. Instead, audiophiles are finding ways to use the two technologies together to enhance the enjoyment of sound recordings.
We have been served well for decades by analog technology. The newer digital technology is a promising means of transmitting video and audio. Each technology has its strengths and weaknesses. Newer is not always better. On the contrary, analog technology delivers superior sound quality and often a richer, more realistic picture than digital technology delivers, despite the clarity of digital transmissions. Analog technology needs to continue to be available because of the benefits it provides its users.
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
Deadline 15, Outline
Thesis statement: Analog technology must remain a viable tool as digital technology increases.
I. Benefits of analog
II. Problems with digital
III. Changes for the future
Conclusion: Because of the benefits analog technology provides, its availability should continue.
I. Benefits of analog
II. Problems with digital
III. Changes for the future
Conclusion: Because of the benefits analog technology provides, its availability should continue.
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
Deadline 14
When writing an argumentative essay, it is imperative to have an understanding of what goes into that particular type of essay. A fact is a statement that something is true or actually occurred, which can be verified. An opinion is a personal belief or judgment that that can not be proven beyond a doubt and is able to be debated. Reliable evidence that is accurate, relevant, sufficient, and representative of a variety of views has a better chance of persuading readers to accept a statement. Basing conclusions on preconceived notions rather than on evidence is using bias. Fallacies are flawed arguments used unintentionally by writers who are not thinking logically, or deliberately by writers who are attempting to mislead readers. Some logical fallacies are argument to ignorance, hasty generalization, and false analogy. An argumentative essay must focus on a debatable topic. When refuting opposing arguments, it is important not to damage your credibility by creating a straw man, in other words, oversimplifying or distorting it.
The essay titled "Such a Waste" adheres well to the technique of an argumentative essay. “The amount of solid waste generated in this country is a significant problem that must be addressed through application of the principles of reduction, reuse, and recycling”, is the thesis of the essay. The words “significant problem” and “must be addressed” indicate the author’s strong feelings about his or her subject. The introductory paragraph uses powerful verbs to incite the reader’s interest. I like the introduction because it affects me personally, and also inspires me to take action. The author presents good examples in order to persuade readers. Both examples of what the problem is and what to do about it are stated. The examples are complete and descriptive enough for the reader to gain a clear understanding of the issue and ways to solve the problem. The ending is adequate but the very last part takes away from the main point of the essay. The quoted works in the essay were not always explained.
The essay titled "Such a Waste" adheres well to the technique of an argumentative essay. “The amount of solid waste generated in this country is a significant problem that must be addressed through application of the principles of reduction, reuse, and recycling”, is the thesis of the essay. The words “significant problem” and “must be addressed” indicate the author’s strong feelings about his or her subject. The introductory paragraph uses powerful verbs to incite the reader’s interest. I like the introduction because it affects me personally, and also inspires me to take action. The author presents good examples in order to persuade readers. Both examples of what the problem is and what to do about it are stated. The examples are complete and descriptive enough for the reader to gain a clear understanding of the issue and ways to solve the problem. The ending is adequate but the very last part takes away from the main point of the essay. The quoted works in the essay were not always explained.
Monday, October 22, 2007
Deadline 13, Classification Rough Draft
Sweet or Sour
Consumers today are more health conscious than ever before. They like to know what they are putting in their bodies and how nutrients and additives will affect their health. High quality foods that also taste good are the preference of most shoppers. The option to select products according to individual needs and wants is of extreme importance to customers. Manufacturers of sweeteners are aware of the diversity of consumers and provide goods to please a wide range of buyers. The three main types of sweeteners on the present market are sugars, natural sweeteners, and artificial sweeteners.
Whether in refined or natural form, sugar has remained the most common type of sweetener throughout history. It can be purchased in granular, powdered, and syrup varieties. Refined sugar products on the market include white beet sugar, white and brown cane sugar, confectioners or powdered sugar, fructose, raw or turbinado sugar, and corn syrup. Popular natural sugar products available are honey, barley malt syrup, brown rice syrup, maple syrup, and fruit juice. Sugar does more than just add sweetness to food and beverages; it provides nutrition, serves as a preservative, and allows ice cream to freeze at higher temperatures than without sugar. Unfortunately, sugar has its drawbacks too. It contributes to dental caries, insulin imbalance, type 2 diabetes, blood clotting, heart disease, and aging.
An alternative to using sugar, especially for the health conscious, is making use of one of the many available natural sweeteners on the market. These are plant based and can be found in many health food and grocery stores in powdered or liquid forms. The natural sweeteners sorbitol, xylitol, erythritol, and mannitol are all derived from the sugar alcohol of trees and other plants such as fresh mushrooms and marine algae. All four of these sweeteners have been approved by the FDA. Although not approved by the FDA for use as a sweetener, stevia, made from the sweet leaves of the stevia plant, is another natural substance that is gaining popularity as a sweetener. Stevia reduces cravings for sweets and has many health benefits as well. It has antibacterial properties, balances blood sugar, and is used in the treatment of candidiasis and autoimmune disease. Each of these natural sweeteners contains few to zero calories, can be used as part of diabetic diets, and help reduce the incidence of tooth decay. The main drawback found with these natural sweeteners is a laxative effect when taken in excess, and with stevia, a bitter after taste is sometimes noticed.
In pursuit of sweet tasting food and beverages without the sugar or calories, many people turn to the highly marketed artificial sweeteners. These may be found in local grocery stores in granular, powdered, and liquid forms. Aspartame, acesulfame K, saccharin, and sucralose are the currently popular types of artificial sweeteners, and are sold under the names, NutraSweet, Sunette or Sweet One, Sweet’N Low and Splenda, respectively. The only real benefits of using one of these artificial sweeteners is the absence of sugar and calories, along with the illusion of a sweet taste, as they trick the brain into believing the body is ingesting something sweet. No food value is present in these substances. Numerous health problems have been associated with artificial sweeteners such as liver toxicity, hypoglycemia, tumors, respiratory illness, and various cancers. Irritability and psychiatric disorders such as panic attacks, depression, and mania have also been attributed to the use of artificial sweeteners. In addition to these side effects, aspartame, the most dangerous of all the sweeteners, has been shown to cause headaches, seizures, optic nerve damage, blindness, and obesity.
Choosing a sweetener can be a harrowing task in the current age. Flavor and convenience are not the only factors to consider. Existing and feared health issues now also play a role in deciding on a sweetener. Some sweeteners boast health benefits, while others pose serious health risks. Particular types preserve foods as well as adding sweetness. The availability of sugars, natural sweeteners, and artificial sweeteners offers consumers the chance to decide which products best suit their needs.
Consumers today are more health conscious than ever before. They like to know what they are putting in their bodies and how nutrients and additives will affect their health. High quality foods that also taste good are the preference of most shoppers. The option to select products according to individual needs and wants is of extreme importance to customers. Manufacturers of sweeteners are aware of the diversity of consumers and provide goods to please a wide range of buyers. The three main types of sweeteners on the present market are sugars, natural sweeteners, and artificial sweeteners.
Whether in refined or natural form, sugar has remained the most common type of sweetener throughout history. It can be purchased in granular, powdered, and syrup varieties. Refined sugar products on the market include white beet sugar, white and brown cane sugar, confectioners or powdered sugar, fructose, raw or turbinado sugar, and corn syrup. Popular natural sugar products available are honey, barley malt syrup, brown rice syrup, maple syrup, and fruit juice. Sugar does more than just add sweetness to food and beverages; it provides nutrition, serves as a preservative, and allows ice cream to freeze at higher temperatures than without sugar. Unfortunately, sugar has its drawbacks too. It contributes to dental caries, insulin imbalance, type 2 diabetes, blood clotting, heart disease, and aging.
An alternative to using sugar, especially for the health conscious, is making use of one of the many available natural sweeteners on the market. These are plant based and can be found in many health food and grocery stores in powdered or liquid forms. The natural sweeteners sorbitol, xylitol, erythritol, and mannitol are all derived from the sugar alcohol of trees and other plants such as fresh mushrooms and marine algae. All four of these sweeteners have been approved by the FDA. Although not approved by the FDA for use as a sweetener, stevia, made from the sweet leaves of the stevia plant, is another natural substance that is gaining popularity as a sweetener. Stevia reduces cravings for sweets and has many health benefits as well. It has antibacterial properties, balances blood sugar, and is used in the treatment of candidiasis and autoimmune disease. Each of these natural sweeteners contains few to zero calories, can be used as part of diabetic diets, and help reduce the incidence of tooth decay. The main drawback found with these natural sweeteners is a laxative effect when taken in excess, and with stevia, a bitter after taste is sometimes noticed.
In pursuit of sweet tasting food and beverages without the sugar or calories, many people turn to the highly marketed artificial sweeteners. These may be found in local grocery stores in granular, powdered, and liquid forms. Aspartame, acesulfame K, saccharin, and sucralose are the currently popular types of artificial sweeteners, and are sold under the names, NutraSweet, Sunette or Sweet One, Sweet’N Low and Splenda, respectively. The only real benefits of using one of these artificial sweeteners is the absence of sugar and calories, along with the illusion of a sweet taste, as they trick the brain into believing the body is ingesting something sweet. No food value is present in these substances. Numerous health problems have been associated with artificial sweeteners such as liver toxicity, hypoglycemia, tumors, respiratory illness, and various cancers. Irritability and psychiatric disorders such as panic attacks, depression, and mania have also been attributed to the use of artificial sweeteners. In addition to these side effects, aspartame, the most dangerous of all the sweeteners, has been shown to cause headaches, seizures, optic nerve damage, blindness, and obesity.
Choosing a sweetener can be a harrowing task in the current age. Flavor and convenience are not the only factors to consider. Existing and feared health issues now also play a role in deciding on a sweetener. Some sweeteners boast health benefits, while others pose serious health risks. Particular types preserve foods as well as adding sweetness. The availability of sugars, natural sweeteners, and artificial sweeteners offers consumers the chance to decide which products best suit their needs.
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