getit

prelaunchX Invitation

2012-07-11T14:23:00.001-07:00

prelaunchX Invitation: You're invited to join prelaunchX

The real wacky racers: Students enter road race with hydrogen-powered 'eco car' made of plywood and cardboard

2012-07-05T01:30:00.000-07:00

In any normal race, the car would be disqualified instantly - not only is it made of cardboard and plywood, it's also powered by explosive hydrogen.

But the Shell Eco-Marathon is a hotbed for wacky vehicles - and the plywood car, designed by students at Aston University in Birmingham, is a hot contender. It drew up on the starting grid alongside other eco-friendly vehicles in Kuala Lumpur today.

'The car we are building will be entered into the 'urban concept' category and will be powered by a Nexa Ballard Hydrogen Fuel Cell,' says the team of students behind the vehicle.

'As it's an eco-marathon, we are trying to be as sustainable as possible in the entire design of the car- making the chassis out of cardboard and plywood and using bio-resin infused fibres for body panels.'

The car was built by a team of undergraduate Engineering and Design students in Birmingham, UK.

It has already won a design award in a competition against 200 design teams from 24 different universities.

Their innovative car, which runs on hydrogen, has a body made from cardboard sandwiched between plywood certified by the British Forestry Commission.

Its tyre covers are made from bio-resin, infused with hessian fibres, with the whole structure collapsible for easy delivery.

Professor Higgs wipes a tear from his eye as fellow scientists find his 'God particle' on 'momentous day for science' - 40 years after he predicted its existence

2012-07-05T01:09:00.003-07:00

The search for the 'God particle' is over.

Almost half a century after the existence of the Higgs boson – the particle that holds the universe together and gives it substance – was predicted, jubilant scientists announced that they appear to have found it.

Rolf Heuer, director-general of Cern, the home of the Large Hadron Collider, told a packed auditorium: 'As a layman, I would say we have it.'

He predicted the discovery will shed light on other mysteries of the universe and added: 'We have reached a milestone in our understanding of nature.'

Others compared the significance of the sighting to the first moon landing and to Christopher Columbus discovering America.

Newcastle-born Professor Peter Higgs, who dreamed up the concept of the particle that now bears his name while walking in the Scottish Highlands in 1964, was present at the announcement and wiped a tear from his eye.

He said: 'I never expected this to happen in my lifetime and shall be asking my family to put some champagne in the fridge.'

Stephen Hawking, who had bet $100 (£64) that the Higgs boson would never be found, said: 'This is an important result and should earn Peter Higgs the Nobel prize.'

David Cameron offered his congratulations and said he hoped the breakthrough would inspire a generation of researchers to keep Britain at the forefront of scientific discoveries.

The Higgs boson's role is to give the particles that make up atoms their mass. Without this mass, they would zip around the cosmos, unable to bind together to form the atoms that make stars and planets – and people.

Despite its fabled properties, the particle has eluded previous searches and not all scientists believed in its existence.

Be security conscious, govs tell corps members

2012-07-05T00:24:00.000-07:00

CORPS members have been urged to be security conscious throughout their service year.

The 2012 Batch ‘B’ corps members were sworn in across the country on Wednesday with assurances of security by governors.

The take-off of the new service year had been enmeshed in controversies with hundreds of corps members from the South protesting against their deployment in crisis-prone states in the North, but the cancellation of such postings by the Federal Government and security guarantees saved the situation.

Although they were assured of their protection at the swearing-in of the corps members, Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi and his Ekiti counterpart, Kayode Fayemi, advised them to always be on the alert.

Amaechi said, “I implore you to be responsible and disciplined citizens of this great country. You must shun cultism, religious intolerance, political violence and any form of anti-social behaviour.

“Above all, I advise you to be security conscious at all times while the state government plays her own part in ensuring your security.”

Fayemi challenged the corps members to assist the government in tackling the security challenges threatening to disintegrate the country.

The governor, who was represented by the Speaker of the House of Assembly, Dr. Adewale Omirin, said at the Orientation Camp that corps members should dedicate themselves to service.

He said, “You all are aware of the security challenge which is gradually turning our nation into a terrorist nation before the international communities. I charge you to see yourself as an instrument to check this menace.

“Be security conscious at all times. Report any strange movement or package to the law enforcement agents. Security should be our collective responsibility. As you play your part, government too will not leave any stone unturned in ensuring adequate provision for security of lives and property of all citizenry.”

On his part, Enugu State Governor Sullivan Chime called for adequate security for corps members in the country.

He appealed to the corps members to strive towards achieving the NYSC objective of national integration despite the security challenges currently facing the country.

Abia State Governor Theodore Orji promised to provide additional facilities at the NYSC permanent orientation camp at Ummunna in Bende Local Government Area of the state.

Orji commended the aurhorities of the scheme for “repacking the scheme toward meeting the current needs of the nation,” especially in entrepreneurial development and new posting policy.

Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola said the scheme created in 1973 remained a tool for national unity despite current challenges being faced by the corps.

Aregbesola stated this in an address entitled, ‘Stay on, get on’, which he delivered during the inauguration of NYSC Batch B 2012 members, at NYSC orientation camp, Ede, on Wednesday.

BENEFITS OF APPLE

2011-05-06T11:16:00.000-07:00

Apple tree originated in Western Asia, where its wild ancestor, the Alma, is still found today. There are more than 7,500 known cultivars of apples, resulting in a range of desired characteristics. Cultivars vary in their yield and the ultimate size of the tree, even when grown on the same.

The apple is the pomaceous fruit of the apple tree, species Malus domestica in the rose family (Rosaceae). It is one of the most widely cultivated tree fruits, and the most widely known of the many members of genus Malus that are used by humans.

Apples are a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin C. One medium sized apple has about 13% of the recommended daily value of dietary fiber and 11% of vitamin C. One apple can supply you with 72 calories, two of them being from fat. Other nutrients that the apple has are vitamin K, vitamin B6, Calcium, Iron, Magnesium, Phosphorus and Potassium.

BENEFITS OF EATING APPLE

Ø Apples contain vitamin C which helps boost your immune system.
Ø Phenols also prevent LDL cholesterol from turning into oxidized LDL, a dangerous form of bad cholesterol.
Ø Women who eat three apples a day lose more weight while dieting than women who do not eat fruit while dieting.
Ø Quercetin, a flavonoid abundant in apples has been found to help prevent the growth of prostate cancer cells
Ø Phytonutrients in the skin of apples inhibited the growth of colon cancer cells by 43%
Ø Food containing flavonoids like those in apples may reduce risk of lung cancer as much as 50%
Ø Dietary phenolics such as flavonoids (found in apples) have inhibitory effects on the developments of carcinogenic substances in the bladder, thereby reducing risk of bladder cancer, especially in smokers
Ø Apples contain phenols. Phenols reduce bad cholesterol and increase good cholesterol.
Ø Phenols also prevent LDL cholesterol from turning into oxidized LDL, a dangerous form of bad cholesterol.
Ø Apples prevent tooth decay. The juice of the apple can kill around 80% of bacteria.
Ø Apples are a low GI food so you don’t get that sugar high and then crash.
Ø Apples are a great snacking option in between meals.
Ø Apples have a high percentage of water in their make up which can help contribute to you daily water intake.
Ø Apples contain substances called phytonutrients. These prevent neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
Ø Apples also contain quercetin. This may protect brain cells from the kind of free radical damage that may lead to Alzheimer’s disease.
Ø Quercetin has also been found to he
Ø An apple won’t replace your toothbrush, but biting and chewing an apple stimulates the production of saliva in your mouth, reducing tooth decay by lowering the levels of bacteria.
Ø Research has shown that people who eat fruits and other high-fibre foods gain a certain amount of protection against Parkinson’s, a disease characterized by a breakdown of the brain’s dopamine-producing nerve cells.
Ø Pectin in apples reduces the risk of colon cancer and helps maintain a healthy digestive tract.
Ø Pectin in apples supplies galacturonic acid to the body which lowers the body’s need for insulin and may help in the management of diabetes.
Ø Apples are a great source of vitamins, minerals and other important chemicals.
Ø Apples are also found to play a role in inhibiting age related problems, preventing wrinkles and promoting hair growth.
Ø Apples contain potassium, which is needed for regulation of water balance and muscle function.
Ø Women who eat at least one apple a day are 28 percent less likely to develop type two diabetes than those who don’t eat apples. Apples are loaded with soluble fibre, the key to blunting blood sugar swings.
Ø Gallstones form when there’s too much cholesterol in your bile for it to remain as a liquid, so it solidifies. They are particularly prevalent in the obese. To prevent gallstones, doctors recommend a diet high in fibre to help you control your weight and cholesterol levels.
Ø We’re constantly consuming toxins, whether it is from drinks or food, and your liver is responsible for clearing these toxins out of your body. Many doctors are skeptical of fad detox diets, saying they have the potential to do more harm than good. Luckily, one of the best—and easiest—things you can eat to help detoxify your liver is fruits—like apples.mainly For those who drinks.
Ø A Japanese study on animals suggests that procyanidin, a chemical compound in apples may help with hair growth. However the results were inconclusive to make an assumption on the effects of procyanidin on humans.
Ø The seeds are poisonous because of the small amount of amygdalin, however it won’t have any toxic effect unless eaten in a high quantity
Ø A group of apple compounds could protect the brain from damage that causes Alzheimer and Parkinsonism. Apple phenolics found in fresh apple can protect nerve cells.
Ø Apples also help with wrinkles. sun caused skin damage may be repelled with consumption of fruits like apples and prunes, vegetables and olive oil.
Ø An extensive body of research has linked high soluble fibre intake with a slower buildup of cholesterol-rich plaque in your arteries. The phenolic compound found in apple skins also prevents the cholesterol that gets into your system from solidifying on your artery walls.

Hughes hails Dempsey influence

2011-01-26T07:20:00.000-08:00

Fulham boss Mark Hughes lauded the performance of Clint Dempsey, whose brace helped his side to a 2-0 win over Stoke at Craven Cottage.

The 27-year-old striker scored a goal in each half to help put valuable breathing space between Fulham and the relegation zone, and Hughes was delighted with both the result and the contribution of the American. “Sometimes you think Clint’s not having an impact on the game, but he’s had a positive influence in virtually every game he’s pl...
Fulham boss Mark Hughes lauded the performance of Clint Dempsey, whose brace helped his side to a 2-0 win over Stoke at Craven Cottage.

The 27-year-old striker scored a goal in each half to help put valuable breathing space between Fulham and the relegation zone, and Hughes was delighted with both the result and the contribution of the American.

“Sometimes you think Clint’s not having an impact on the game, but he’s had a positive influence in virtually every game he’s played, with goals created or scored,” Hughes said.

“It was a great finish for the first, and a great touch to create the penalty by himself. He always has a positive impact.”

“It was a good win today – pretty straightforward in all fairness.”

“We got the ball down, played our stuff and got the goals at good times. It was quite comfortable.”

“We just knew we had to get over a period where results didn’t quite go for us. We just needed to get key personnel back, firing.”

Stoke manager Tony Pulis was left to lament the decision to send off defender Ryan Shawcross for a foul on Dempsey that led to a penalty the striker duly converted.

The referee had little choice but to dismiss the 23-year-old, but Pulis believes the further two-match ban the defender will incur is too hard a punishment.

“I’m looking at it and it’s two bodies coming together. He’s been sent off, we’ve been penalised with them scoring the second goal and now he misses another two games,” Pulis told Sky Sports.

“I think it’s a harsh thing to have to accept when it looks as though the kid’s almost on the way down waiting to be touched.”

“It’s not only that it’s the two games (ban) as well. It’s desperately disappointing for us. I do think at times people will have to look at (the rule).”

When asked about the result, the Welshman was pragmatic – believing they were beaten by a better side on the day.

“I’ve not really any complaints. I think the penalty decision obviously changed the game,” Pulis said.

“First half I’d say Fulham were the better team although we’ve had four or five great opportunities today without really playing well. Obviously the penalty and the sending off then kills you.”

Prevention of Sports Injuries and Back Pain

2010-12-10T13:20:00.000-08:00

Learning proper stretch exercises:
In sports people learn techniques, and will train to enjoy the sports. The problem
is most trainers fail to train the peers correctly. Injuries occur when inappropriate
training and techniques are used. In addition, many people engage in sports
failing to wear proper clothing, helmets, etc, and sometimes people will
participate in sports when weather or visibility is poor.
When weather is cold, it is important that you wear warm attire. Wearing proper
attire can help you avoid respiratory conditions, which affect the liver, lungs, etc,
and can lead to back pain. In addition, those joining in exercises or sports should
wear proper shoes to avoid slips and falls. Helmets are essential to prevent brain
injuries. Brain injuries will affect the spinal columns, which leads to back pain.
When weather conditions interrupt visibility, it poses risks. In fact, various people
have sustained back injuries while jogging at night, since these people failed to
wear proper attire, such as reflective tabs, etc. Motorized accidents can occur
when the driver cannot see the runner, jogger, etc. This means the vehicle hits
you and if you are not lucky enough to die, you should pray that you are lucky
enough to miss back pain. Back pain is one of the worst types of pain you will
ever endure. Since many people are misinformed as to how to stretch the
muscles before exercising, we can consider a few helpful steps.
As mentioned earlier it is important to perform proper exercises before joining in
sports. Proper exercises start with warm ups. Warm ups include neck, shoulder,
arm, and leg stretches.

Ammonium Bromide

2010-12-07T12:26:00.000-08:00

Ammonium bromide, NH4Br, is the ammonium salt of hydrobromic acid.
The chemical crystallizes in colorless prisms, possessing a saline taste;
it sublimes on heating and is easily soluble in water.
On exposure to air it gradually assumes a yellow color because
of the oxidation of traces of bromide (Br-) to bromine (Br2).

PREPARATION

Ammonium bromide can be prepared by the direct action of
hydrogen bromide on ammonia.

    NH3 + HBr → NH4Br

It can also be prepared by the reaction of ammonia with iron(II) bromide
or iron(III) bromide, which may be obtained by passing aqueous bromine
solution over iron filings.

    2 NH3 + FeBr2 + 2 H2O → 2 NH4Br + Fe(OH)2