Technologies have developed to recycle low-value waste materials produced by coal mining and coke production operations, converting them into relatively high-value products that are commercially viable. Coke briquettes produced with the technology are suitable for many industrial applications, including steel-making blast furnaces. Coal briquettes produced with such technology are a clean burning, smokeless fuel suitable for home heating as an alternative to wood. The coal briquettes can be burned in fireplaces and wood-burning stoves. Enviro-Fuels has developed a proprietary binding agent that allows coal and coke fines to be formed into durable briquettes. The briquettes can be made in various sizes, depending on the application of the product. Typically, the briquettes are similar in size to common charcoal briquettes used for barbecues. The briquettes produced with the technology are durable, clean burning, retain the BTU value of the coal or coke used, are economical to produce, and are suitable for a variety of industrial applications as well as home heating uses. We shall be able to recycle a disposable product that has heretofore caused environmental problems and transform it into a viable product.
We speak your language.
Saturday, January 31, 2009
Friday, January 30, 2009
Alternative Uses of Bagasse
Pakistan, is the fourth largest sugar cane producing country, generates annually 5.4 million tones of bagasse, eighty percent being used for producing fuel, the remaining bulk (2 million tones approx) containing 50-55% cellulose, can possibly be recycled and put to beneficial use instead of merely burning. Seventy percent of population in Pakistan suffers from protein deficiency and malnutrition. Scarcity of protein rich leguminous grazing sites coupled with feeding cheap and protein deficient materials result in slow growth and low productivity of farm animals. Feeding high protein diet is quite expensive and, therefore, not feasible. Feeding bagasse residues directly to animal has limitations due to low digestability, and poor protein content. Nutritive value and digestability of bagasse can, however, be significantly improved through microbial degradation. De Menezes converted bagasse into protein using Myrothecium verrucaria, Trichoderma viride and Geotrichumsp. Jahuri reported protein production from agricultural waste using fungi. Fermentation of bagasse for improving its digestability as animal feed was also carried out by Nigam et al. Based on earlier reported information on synthesis of fungal protein from molasses and on other studies relating to recycling waste.
Thursday, January 29, 2009
Gloomy Picture of World Economies.
The International Monetary Fund on Wednesday forecast the world economy would slow to a near standstill this year, warning that deflation risks were rising and saying toxic assets need to be removed from the banking system. It cut its forecast for global growth in 2009 to a slight 0.5 per cent, the weakest since World War Two, from a November estimate of 2.2 per cent. “Despite wide-ranging policy actions, financial strains remain acute, pulling down the real economy,” the IMF said in an updated forecast. “A sustained economic recovery will not be possible until the financial sector’s functionality is restored and credit markets are unclogged,” it added.
The outlook was even worse for advanced countries such as the
The 27-member eurozone economy would hit a wall, suffering a two per cent contraction after growing one per cent in 2008. The previous 2009 estimate was for a 0.5 per cent contraction. Germany , Europe ’s biggest economy, would shrink by 2.5 per cent this year after a 1.3 per cent expansion in 2008, according to IMF figures published six days ago. Britain Canada China India
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Biodiesel from commercialisation of Jatropha in Pakistan
“The News” dated 12 October, 2008, a daily newspaper published tender for supply of Jatropha seed from Punjab Forest Department for supply of Jetropha Curcas seeds. Some argue it is a great news for commercialization of Jetropha in
We must be careful in introducing Jatropha in areas where it is best suited and where it may not compete with the agricultural crops. We must restrict its plantation to problem lands not fit for agriculture. Private sector is not aware about the problems we will face if it is planted on agricultural lands as they are after production of cheap fuel.
The finitude of fossil fuels, concerns for energy security and the need to respond to climate change have led to growing worldwide interests in biofuels. Biofuels are viewed by many policy makers as a key to reducing reliance on foreign oil, lowering emissions of greenhouse gases and meeting rural development goals. However, political and public support for biofuels has recently been undermined due to environmental and food security concerns, and by reports questioning the rationale that biofuels substantially reduce carbon emissions. There is a need to discuss the promise of biofuels as a renewable energy source; critically evaluate the environmental and societal costs of biofuel use; and highlight on-going developments in biofuel feedstock selection and production technologies. Also there is a need to highlight net positive greenhouse gases emissions, threats to forests and biodiversity, food price increases, and competition for water resources as the key negative impacts of biofuel use. Can any one show that some of these environmental and societal costs may be ameliorated or reversed with the development and use of next generation biofuel feedstocks (e.g., waste biomass) and production technologies (e.g., pyrolysis).
My view is that certain types of biofuels do represent potential sources of alternative energy, but their use needs to be tempered with a comprehensive assessment of their environmental impacts. Together with increased energy conservation, efficiencies and technologies such as solar-power and wind turbines, biofuels should be included in a diverse portfolio of renewable energy sources to reduce our dependence on the planet’s finite supply of fossil fuels and to insure a sustainable future.
Second set of octuplets born alive in the US
Eight babies born to a mother in Southern California --only the second set of octuplets born alive in the US --- were in stable condition and breathing on their own, doctors said on Tuesday. Dr Mandhir Gupta, a neonatologist at Kaiser Permanente Bellflower Medical Centre, told ABC television that the babies “are doing actually very, very well”.
Two of the newborns were initially put on ventilators, but their breathing tubes have been removed. “Only three babies need some sort of oxygen through the nose right now but they are breathing on their own,” Dr Gupta said on “Good Morning America”.
The six boys and two girls were born on Monday, weighing between 1 pound, 8 ounces (0.67kg) and 3 pounds, 4 ounces (1.47kg). The mother’s identity has not been released. The world’s first live octuplets were born in March 1967 in Mexico City, but all died within 14 hours, according to Encyclopaedia Britannica.
The United States’ first live octuplets were born in Houston in 1998, three months premature. The tiniest died a week after the birth. The surviving siblings turned 10 in December. Their parents, Nkem Chukwu and Iyke Louis Udobi, told The Associated Press that they were delighted to hear another mother managed the same feat.
“It’s a blessing, truly a blessing,” Chukwu said. “We’ll keep praying for them.” Doctors had been expecting only seven babies. Just five minutes after the first birth, the unexpected eighth baby came out.
Two of the newborns were initially put on ventilators, but their breathing tubes have been removed. “Only three babies need some sort of oxygen through the nose right now but they are breathing on their own,” Dr Gupta said on “Good Morning America”.
The six boys and two girls were born on Monday, weighing between 1 pound, 8 ounces (0.67kg) and 3 pounds, 4 ounces (1.47kg). The mother’s identity has not been released. The world’s first live octuplets were born in March 1967 in Mexico City, but all died within 14 hours, according to Encyclopaedia Britannica.
The United States’ first live octuplets were born in Houston in 1998, three months premature. The tiniest died a week after the birth. The surviving siblings turned 10 in December. Their parents, Nkem Chukwu and Iyke Louis Udobi, told The Associated Press that they were delighted to hear another mother managed the same feat.
“It’s a blessing, truly a blessing,” Chukwu said. “We’ll keep praying for them.” Doctors had been expecting only seven babies. Just five minutes after the first birth, the unexpected eighth baby came out.
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
Solar Thermal Updraft Power Plant
Pakistan is facing a serious energy crisis. Solar Thermal Updraft Power Plant is the new promising technology; this renewable clean energy, if ventured in Pakistan, can not only solve our energy crisis but can also solve our green house gases problem. Australia is setting up 200 MWs solar thermal updraft power plant to feed electricity to 200, 000 households. In Australia, a full-fledged agency namely EnviroMission has been established for the solar tower. Schlaich a German firm is helping Australians for the set up of Solar Tower Power Plant.
Concept:
Solar thermal power plant also known as solar chimney power plant converts global irradiance from Sun into electricity. A solar chimney power plant has a high chimney (tower), with a height of up to 1000 meters, and this is surrounded by a large collector roof, up to 130 meters in diameter, that consists of glass or resistive plastic supported on a framework (Figure-1 and 2). Towards its centre, the roof curves upwards to join the chimney, creating a funnel.
The sun heats up the ground and the air underneath the collector roof, and the heated air follows the upward incline of the roof until it reaches the chimney. There, it flows at high speed through the chimney and drives wind generators/turbines at its bottom. The ground under the collector roof behaves as a storage medium, and can even heat up the air for a significant time after sunset. Outer area under the collector roof can also be utilized as a greenhouse for agricultural purposes. Electricity is generated from turbines driven by solar heated air that is produced by simple and proven principals of physics.
Benefits:
• The potentials for solar thermal power plants are enormous: for instance, about 1% of the area of the Sahara desert covered with solar thermal power plants would theoretically be sufficient to meet the entire global electricity demand. Therefore, solar thermal power systems can play an important role in the world’s future electricity supply.
• Solar Tower power offers important difference to the renewable energy sector that will deliver large-scale, emission free, reliable and commercially competitive electricity.
• Solar Tower technology represents the largest non-hydro embedded renewable energy generation opportunity ever proposed.
• This technology offers immense environmental, technological, and social benefits for Pakistan.
Concept:
Solar thermal power plant also known as solar chimney power plant converts global irradiance from Sun into electricity. A solar chimney power plant has a high chimney (tower), with a height of up to 1000 meters, and this is surrounded by a large collector roof, up to 130 meters in diameter, that consists of glass or resistive plastic supported on a framework (Figure-1 and 2). Towards its centre, the roof curves upwards to join the chimney, creating a funnel.
The sun heats up the ground and the air underneath the collector roof, and the heated air follows the upward incline of the roof until it reaches the chimney. There, it flows at high speed through the chimney and drives wind generators/turbines at its bottom. The ground under the collector roof behaves as a storage medium, and can even heat up the air for a significant time after sunset. Outer area under the collector roof can also be utilized as a greenhouse for agricultural purposes. Electricity is generated from turbines driven by solar heated air that is produced by simple and proven principals of physics.
Benefits:
• The potentials for solar thermal power plants are enormous: for instance, about 1% of the area of the Sahara desert covered with solar thermal power plants would theoretically be sufficient to meet the entire global electricity demand. Therefore, solar thermal power systems can play an important role in the world’s future electricity supply.
• Solar Tower power offers important difference to the renewable energy sector that will deliver large-scale, emission free, reliable and commercially competitive electricity.
• Solar Tower technology represents the largest non-hydro embedded renewable energy generation opportunity ever proposed.
• This technology offers immense environmental, technological, and social benefits for Pakistan.
Readymade Garments
Pakistan Readymade Garments Manufacturers and Exporters Association (PRGMEA) is the premier trade organization representing the Readymade Garment Industry in Pakistan. PRGMEA was established in 1981 to provide advice and services to manufacturers and exporters and to promote a better environment for trade. As a trade organization, it is recognized by the Government of Pakistan and affiliated with the Federation of Pakistan Chamber of Commerce & Industry, and with the Employers' Federation of Pakistan.
The mission of the PRGMEA is to provide advice and services to manufacturers and exporters of garments and to promote a better environment for trade.
The objectives of PRGMEA are:
To advise, protect, safeguard and promote the rights, interests of members and to assure their goodwill.
To provide supporting services to members.
To Monitor export performance and provide related information and market knowledge to members.
To encourage exports by advocating for a better export environment and by removing difficulties and short comings in the ready made garments trade, through continuous interaction with concerned bodies and institutions.
The readymade garments of Pakistan are famous all of the world. The textile industry of Pakistan produces garments of premium quality.
The mission of the PRGMEA is to provide advice and services to manufacturers and exporters of garments and to promote a better environment for trade.
The objectives of PRGMEA are:
To advise, protect, safeguard and promote the rights, interests of members and to assure their goodwill.
To provide supporting services to members.
To Monitor export performance and provide related information and market knowledge to members.
To encourage exports by advocating for a better export environment and by removing difficulties and short comings in the ready made garments trade, through continuous interaction with concerned bodies and institutions.
The readymade garments of Pakistan are famous all of the world. The textile industry of Pakistan produces garments of premium quality.
Sunday, January 25, 2009
PPHI Best Model for South Asia
People Primary Health Care Initiative has been declared as the best health management model for South Asia by the World Bank. The credit goes to the dedicated management team and unwavering support by the government. PPHI is a great source to extend the support to ailing community of rural areas of Pakistan. PPHI's mandate is to turn nonfunctional Basic Health Units BHUs in Pakistan into Best Heatlh Facility Centers. The PPHI is overtaking the charge of these BHUs from the District Government and is in the process to fully operationalise the basic health units and develop new health management set up and return it to District Government.
The Chairman Senate Standing Committee on Cabinet and Special Initiative along with other Senator members of Senate Standing Committee carried out a surprise visit to Sukkur District in Sindh Province, Pakistan. Few shots of the visit are attached.
The Chairman Senate Standing Committee on Cabinet and Special Initiative along with other Senator members of Senate Standing Committee carried out a surprise visit to Sukkur District in Sindh Province, Pakistan. Few shots of the visit are attached.
Saturday, January 24, 2009
Gold and Copper Minning
Pakistan is blessed with the richest treasures of natural resources. All this hidden wealth has to be explored for making the best possible use of what Nature has bestowed on us. Saindak Copper-Gold Project is the first major venture of its kind in the country in the metal mining sector based on indigenous mineral resources. Located at Saindak in district Chaghai of Balochistan province, the project envisaged mining, milling and smelting of Copper Ore for yielding an annual production of 15810 tones of Blister Copper, 1.46 tones of Gold and 2.76 tones of Silver for an estimated period of 19 years. It is a unique project in the sense that "Resources Development Corporation" was established way back in 1974 for the project planning and execution and initial work in terms of planning started in 1978. It has been constructed with technical and financial assistance of Messrs Metallurgical Construction Corporation (MCC) of China.
The Saindak project was based on estimated ore reserves of 412 million tones containing on average 0.5 gram of gold per tone and 1.5 grams of silver per tone. The mine is reported to have produced about 50,000 tones since October 2003. According to official estimates, the project has the capacity to produce 15,800 tones of blister copper annually, containing 1.5 tones of gold and 2.8 tones of silver. The reported production results, however, have generally remained on average more than 2,000 tones per month, which means that more than production of 24,000 tones per year has been taking place
Saindak is derived from the Balochi language's 'siyahain dik' or black cluster - the name Baloch nomads gave to the area which lies along the ancient routes linking Central Asia to India. Driving from Quetta. just 110 kilometers short of Sainda, some literary people say it is from Say-dag (3-ways) a Blaochi word meaning (3-ways).
Copper mineralization at Saindak was known since 1901 but exploration work was initiated by GSP in 1964. Resource Development Corporation (RDC) was established in 1974 to explore, evaluate and develop copper deposits located in Saindak Chagai District Balochistan. The Saindak project envisages mining, milling and producing blister copper together with gold and silver as associated metals in Phase I to be followed by production of mild steel billets and sulphuric acid in Phase II. The Saindak project would yield for 19 years an average annual production of copper, 15810 tones, gold, 1.47 tones and silver, 2.76 tones. The contract between RDC and Metallurgical Construction Corporation (MCC) of China for implementation of the project was approved in Beijing on September 23, 1990, at a ceremony attended by the Presidents of Pakistan and China.
Pakistan is also bearing the environmental costs of the projects, as the production of copper is a long and dangerous process. The smelting of the copper ore emits arsenic and carbon monoxide, which pollutes the air and water near the mines. The copper is heated at high temperatures several times before the metal is ready for export. The impact of copper production on the country's environment is bound to grow at an alarming rate in the next seven years of the lease contract. Most threatened is the atmosphere in the immediate vicinity of the copper mine.
The local population, however, is not happy and they term it as exploitation of their recourses. The government and the mining company can easily divert resources for the uplift of local people. There value addition in the form of establishing small industrial units for preparation of the copper based electric goods can be a good venture to address the grievance of local people.
The Saindak project was based on estimated ore reserves of 412 million tones containing on average 0.5 gram of gold per tone and 1.5 grams of silver per tone. The mine is reported to have produced about 50,000 tones since October 2003. According to official estimates, the project has the capacity to produce 15,800 tones of blister copper annually, containing 1.5 tones of gold and 2.8 tones of silver. The reported production results, however, have generally remained on average more than 2,000 tones per month, which means that more than production of 24,000 tones per year has been taking place
Saindak is derived from the Balochi language's 'siyahain dik' or black cluster - the name Baloch nomads gave to the area which lies along the ancient routes linking Central Asia to India. Driving from Quetta. just 110 kilometers short of Sainda, some literary people say it is from Say-dag (3-ways) a Blaochi word meaning (3-ways).
Copper mineralization at Saindak was known since 1901 but exploration work was initiated by GSP in 1964. Resource Development Corporation (RDC) was established in 1974 to explore, evaluate and develop copper deposits located in Saindak Chagai District Balochistan. The Saindak project envisages mining, milling and producing blister copper together with gold and silver as associated metals in Phase I to be followed by production of mild steel billets and sulphuric acid in Phase II. The Saindak project would yield for 19 years an average annual production of copper, 15810 tones, gold, 1.47 tones and silver, 2.76 tones. The contract between RDC and Metallurgical Construction Corporation (MCC) of China for implementation of the project was approved in Beijing on September 23, 1990, at a ceremony attended by the Presidents of Pakistan and China.
Pakistan is also bearing the environmental costs of the projects, as the production of copper is a long and dangerous process. The smelting of the copper ore emits arsenic and carbon monoxide, which pollutes the air and water near the mines. The copper is heated at high temperatures several times before the metal is ready for export. The impact of copper production on the country's environment is bound to grow at an alarming rate in the next seven years of the lease contract. Most threatened is the atmosphere in the immediate vicinity of the copper mine.
The local population, however, is not happy and they term it as exploitation of their recourses. The government and the mining company can easily divert resources for the uplift of local people. There value addition in the form of establishing small industrial units for preparation of the copper based electric goods can be a good venture to address the grievance of local people.
Friday, January 23, 2009
Leather Goods and Leather Garmets
In Pakistan, the world's finest leather is produced. Major revenue is also earned through export of leather goods in Pakistan. One day I was looking for a Pakistan's leather item but was shocked to know from a well branded shop, the sale man told that all Pakistan leather due to its finest quality is exported out, so I would not be able to get that particular Pakistani leather good rather I need to travel abroad or order from abroad.
Pakistan Leather Garments Manufacturer and Exporter Association (PLGMEA) was formed in November 2001 to protect, promote and develop the Pakistan Leather Garment Industry. During the last three years PLGMEA has been actively promoting the interest of its members regarding various trades, taxation and manpower related matters. PLGMEA regularly collects and disseminates statistics & other pertinent information for the Leather Garment Industry. PLGMEA also carries out aggressive international marketing campaign for boosting the exports of Leather Garments mainly through participation in international exhibitions.
PLGMEA regularly organizes pavilion for its members in following exhibitions.
A ) Asia Pacific Leather Fair (APLF) Hong Kong.
B ) CPD Man-Woman, Dusseldorf, Germany
C ) Magic Show, Las Vegas, USA.
PLGMEA also undertakes special projects for uplift of the Leather Garments Industry like hiring of Korean Technicians for training Labor force etc. PLGMEA coordinates trade promotion delegations and places advertisements in prominent international magazines for creating awareness about Leather Garment Industry in Pakistan.
Pakistan Leather Garments Manufacturer and Exporter Association (PLGMEA) was formed in November 2001 to protect, promote and develop the Pakistan Leather Garment Industry. During the last three years PLGMEA has been actively promoting the interest of its members regarding various trades, taxation and manpower related matters. PLGMEA regularly collects and disseminates statistics & other pertinent information for the Leather Garment Industry. PLGMEA also carries out aggressive international marketing campaign for boosting the exports of Leather Garments mainly through participation in international exhibitions.
PLGMEA regularly organizes pavilion for its members in following exhibitions.
A ) Asia Pacific Leather Fair (APLF) Hong Kong.
B ) CPD Man-Woman, Dusseldorf, Germany
C ) Magic Show, Las Vegas, USA.
PLGMEA also undertakes special projects for uplift of the Leather Garments Industry like hiring of Korean Technicians for training Labor force etc. PLGMEA coordinates trade promotion delegations and places advertisements in prominent international magazines for creating awareness about Leather Garment Industry in Pakistan.
Gems and Jewelry
When it comes to Pakistan, God has bestOwed Pakistan with plenty of precious stones. The Northern Areas of Pakistan are specially famous for this. Each year many tourists come to visit NAs and get gems as bounry.
A gemstone or gem, also called a precious or semi-precious stone, is a piece of attractive mineral, which when cut and polished is used to make jewelry or other adornments. Most gemstones are hard, but some soft minerals are used in jewelry because of their lustre or other physical properties that have aesthetic value. Rarity is another characteristic that lends value to a gemstone Color is the most obvious and attractive feature of gemstones. The color of any material is due to the nature of light itself.
The Pakistan Gems and Jewelry Company has been established for the development of the Gems and Jewelery sector through use of appropriate technology and training to human resource throughout the value chain of Gems & jewelery sector.
The main strategic initiatives of the Gems & Jewellery Strategy cover the following areas:
1. Geological Survey for Gemstones Resources.
2. Boutique Mining.
3. Gems / Jewellery Exchange Centers.
4. Gems Identification/ Certification Centers.
5. Assaying and Hallmarking Centers.
6. Common Facility Training and Manufacturing Centers (CFTMCs).
7. Marketing / Branding through:
a) Participation in International Shows.
b) Local Trade Shows.
c) Market Studies and Surveys.
d) Advertising and Promotion.
The objective of the Common Facility Training and Manufacturing Center is to provide common training and manufacturing facilities for each of the three primary activities within the industry: mining, gems processing and jewelry manufacturing.
(i) Mining:
With its abundant resources in precious and semi-precious gemstones, Pakistan can have a significant competitive advantage in the gem and jewelry market.
However, mining technology and processes are rudimentary and unscientific resulting in significant wastage at the extraction stage. Indiscriminate blasting damages the gemstone crystals and mineral specimen thus drastically reducing their value. In majority of the mines basic machinery and equipment like compressors and drill sets are not available. A large number of mines are currently inactive due to lack of equipment. The SWOG has highlighted a need for establishing Common Training and Facility Centers to upgrade mining practices in Pakistan. The CFTMC will perform two major functions:
Training in mining techniques to reduce wastage and extract better quality gems;
Provision of machines for use of local miners. The CFTMC will have a common pool of machines which will be leased out to miners on a need basis.
The overall objective of the CFTMC is to modernize mining practices, reduce wastage, improve the quality of extracted gems, and thereby increasing the income of miners. Training will improve the skills of those already in the mining industry and train new entrants, leading to an increase in the overall productivity of workers and hence better quality output. Provision of machines will have an immediate impact in terms of rehabilitation of inactive mines and improved production of ones already functioning. The SWOG has highlighted the need for mining CFTMCs in Balochistan, NWFP, Northern Areas and Tribal Areas.
(ii) Gem Processing
Due to lack of adequate processing infrastructure and skills, approximately 75 percent of Pakistan's exports are in unworked stones, representing a significant loss in value added (total value of exports in 2003 was USD 3.7 million). Gems cutting and processing in Pakistan suffers from obsolete technology, limited skills, and lack of precision.
Presently, there are more than 30,000 people involved with the industry and there are around 500 units involved in cutting and polishing of gemstones. Most of the gemstone processors are clustered in Karachi and Peshawar (Namak Mandi), with smaller clusters in Lahore, Quetta and Islamabad. Little value is gained by processing stones as cutting exists on a very limited scale in small one to three person workshops. The prevailing technique is cutting for yield to maximize weight, not value. The industry lacks expertise in precision and calibrated cutting and is not up to date with the latest treatments. The skill level of the craftsmen engaged in gems processing depends entirely on their experience and on what they have learned from their families, mainly migrants from Jaipur, India. These local craftsmen are unaware of latest technologies and international quality standards. Most of the stones are recut, once they reach international markets. While the value addition which can be accrued through processing of these stones (cutting and polishing) starts from 10 times and goes up to as high as 100 times. This reduces the potential price a dealer is willing to pay to the Pakistani seller. Lapidary training is being offered at the Gems and Gemological Institute of Pakistan at Peshawar. Experienced dealers have voiced concerns over the institute's limited resources and training capacity.
The objective of the Gemstones CFTMC is to provide state of the art training in cutting, polishing and treating gemstones as well as common processing facilities in order to enhance the value of gemstones sold into the local and international markets. The CFTMC will train a new generation of lapidarists in the latest processes thereby upgrading their skills and earning potential. Training of cutters will be focused on international standards of calibration and new enhancement techniques. The CFTMC will also provide a common processing facility that can be used by gemstone dealers and exporters. The SWOG has highlighted the need for lapidary training and common processing facilities in Quetta, Karachi, Peshawar, Northern Areas and Tribal Areas.
The CFTMC would offer long-term training and short-term certificate courses. Long-term courses would be for people who want to learn in-depth the different sort of cuts, faceting and polishing. Short-term courses would be for experienced artisans to learn the latest techniques of cutting and polishing. The CFTMC would also offer tailored courses and workshops in response to specific industry, firm or group demand.
As a result of better processing facilities and skills, buyers will be able to place larger orders as calibrated stones are preferred internationally. A common model lapidary facility will encourage the emergence of other private modern workshops leading to an overall up-gradation in the quality of stones and consequently have a direct impact on Pakistan's export earnings. Significant value addition can be accrued by precision cutting and good polishing, which can be captured by gems exporters rather than foreign buyers. By enhancing the income levels of those directly involved in mining and trading, it will have spin-off effects for the entire region.
A gemstone or gem, also called a precious or semi-precious stone, is a piece of attractive mineral, which when cut and polished is used to make jewelry or other adornments. Most gemstones are hard, but some soft minerals are used in jewelry because of their lustre or other physical properties that have aesthetic value. Rarity is another characteristic that lends value to a gemstone Color is the most obvious and attractive feature of gemstones. The color of any material is due to the nature of light itself.
The Pakistan Gems and Jewelry Company has been established for the development of the Gems and Jewelery sector through use of appropriate technology and training to human resource throughout the value chain of Gems & jewelery sector.
The main strategic initiatives of the Gems & Jewellery Strategy cover the following areas:
1. Geological Survey for Gemstones Resources.
2. Boutique Mining.
3. Gems / Jewellery Exchange Centers.
4. Gems Identification/ Certification Centers.
5. Assaying and Hallmarking Centers.
6. Common Facility Training and Manufacturing Centers (CFTMCs).
7. Marketing / Branding through:
a) Participation in International Shows.
b) Local Trade Shows.
c) Market Studies and Surveys.
d) Advertising and Promotion.
The objective of the Common Facility Training and Manufacturing Center is to provide common training and manufacturing facilities for each of the three primary activities within the industry: mining, gems processing and jewelry manufacturing.
(i) Mining:
With its abundant resources in precious and semi-precious gemstones, Pakistan can have a significant competitive advantage in the gem and jewelry market.
However, mining technology and processes are rudimentary and unscientific resulting in significant wastage at the extraction stage. Indiscriminate blasting damages the gemstone crystals and mineral specimen thus drastically reducing their value. In majority of the mines basic machinery and equipment like compressors and drill sets are not available. A large number of mines are currently inactive due to lack of equipment. The SWOG has highlighted a need for establishing Common Training and Facility Centers to upgrade mining practices in Pakistan. The CFTMC will perform two major functions:
Training in mining techniques to reduce wastage and extract better quality gems;
Provision of machines for use of local miners. The CFTMC will have a common pool of machines which will be leased out to miners on a need basis.
The overall objective of the CFTMC is to modernize mining practices, reduce wastage, improve the quality of extracted gems, and thereby increasing the income of miners. Training will improve the skills of those already in the mining industry and train new entrants, leading to an increase in the overall productivity of workers and hence better quality output. Provision of machines will have an immediate impact in terms of rehabilitation of inactive mines and improved production of ones already functioning. The SWOG has highlighted the need for mining CFTMCs in Balochistan, NWFP, Northern Areas and Tribal Areas.
(ii) Gem Processing
Due to lack of adequate processing infrastructure and skills, approximately 75 percent of Pakistan's exports are in unworked stones, representing a significant loss in value added (total value of exports in 2003 was USD 3.7 million). Gems cutting and processing in Pakistan suffers from obsolete technology, limited skills, and lack of precision.
Presently, there are more than 30,000 people involved with the industry and there are around 500 units involved in cutting and polishing of gemstones. Most of the gemstone processors are clustered in Karachi and Peshawar (Namak Mandi), with smaller clusters in Lahore, Quetta and Islamabad. Little value is gained by processing stones as cutting exists on a very limited scale in small one to three person workshops. The prevailing technique is cutting for yield to maximize weight, not value. The industry lacks expertise in precision and calibrated cutting and is not up to date with the latest treatments. The skill level of the craftsmen engaged in gems processing depends entirely on their experience and on what they have learned from their families, mainly migrants from Jaipur, India. These local craftsmen are unaware of latest technologies and international quality standards. Most of the stones are recut, once they reach international markets. While the value addition which can be accrued through processing of these stones (cutting and polishing) starts from 10 times and goes up to as high as 100 times. This reduces the potential price a dealer is willing to pay to the Pakistani seller. Lapidary training is being offered at the Gems and Gemological Institute of Pakistan at Peshawar. Experienced dealers have voiced concerns over the institute's limited resources and training capacity.
The objective of the Gemstones CFTMC is to provide state of the art training in cutting, polishing and treating gemstones as well as common processing facilities in order to enhance the value of gemstones sold into the local and international markets. The CFTMC will train a new generation of lapidarists in the latest processes thereby upgrading their skills and earning potential. Training of cutters will be focused on international standards of calibration and new enhancement techniques. The CFTMC will also provide a common processing facility that can be used by gemstone dealers and exporters. The SWOG has highlighted the need for lapidary training and common processing facilities in Quetta, Karachi, Peshawar, Northern Areas and Tribal Areas.
The CFTMC would offer long-term training and short-term certificate courses. Long-term courses would be for people who want to learn in-depth the different sort of cuts, faceting and polishing. Short-term courses would be for experienced artisans to learn the latest techniques of cutting and polishing. The CFTMC would also offer tailored courses and workshops in response to specific industry, firm or group demand.
As a result of better processing facilities and skills, buyers will be able to place larger orders as calibrated stones are preferred internationally. A common model lapidary facility will encourage the emergence of other private modern workshops leading to an overall up-gradation in the quality of stones and consequently have a direct impact on Pakistan's export earnings. Significant value addition can be accrued by precision cutting and good polishing, which can be captured by gems exporters rather than foreign buyers. By enhancing the income levels of those directly involved in mining and trading, it will have spin-off effects for the entire region.
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Cheap Fashion Jewelry
Cheap Fashion Jewelry
Fashion jewelry was primarily used for stage costumes. As a theatrical device, cheap but flashy jewelry was needed on stage.Instead of using valuable metal, real precious stones or gems, costume jewelry is carved out of less valuable materials, including glass , plastic, base metals, bone, shells , and an array of materials.
From the glittery and attractive costumes of the performers on stage, fashion jewelry has crept onto the heart of international fashion society. People are charmed by the beauty and elegance of fashion jewelry. They are cheap and affordable, yet exquisite in looks.
Crafts in Pakistan presents a unique collection of fashion jewelry, made by traditional craftsmen of Pakistan and celebrated all over the world. Being made of shell, bone, beads and a variety of other materials, they are cheap, beautiful and a perfect blend of fashion and tradition.
# TUSDEC (Technology Upgradation and Skill Development Company) has been established by Pakistan's Ministry of
Industries and Production to upgrade technology and skills of key and strategic industrial clusters and connect Pakistan to the global value chain
# TUSDEC is a Guarantee Limited Company, wholly owned by Government of Pakistan but managed by the private sector
Their Mission is:
To upgrade technology and skills of key and strategic industrial clusters and connect Pakistan to the global value chain.
Jump the Curve:
Assimilation of technology upgrades help expedite value-addition while enhancing productivity. Mass production of high-value products will ultimately bootstrap the economy to increase the gross domestic product (GDP). Technology upgrades in developing countries can take them to the next development/time curve. In Pakistan, with abundant human resource, the use of modern techniques and skill development will help 'jump the curve' to the next orbit of economic progress. A series of 'jumps' to higher levels through technology upgrades will close the gap to reach parity with the developed world.
Activities of TUSDEC:
Research
# Research on technologies in use in Pakistan with global benchmarking
# Research latest technologies available for upgrading important industrial sectors
# Technology Gap Analysis of industrial clusters and assess impact on GDP
# Develop technology databases
# Assist and support industrial clusters on technology acquisition
# Identify shortcomings in installed technology and impact on derivative products
Upgrade Common Technology needs of an Industrial Cluster/Sector
# Common Facility Centres
# Technology Upgadation Centres
# CAD/CAM Centres
# Skill Development Centres
# Support Centres
# Maintenance Centres
# Incubation Centres
# Testing & Accreditation facilities
# Transform existing CFCs like PITAC, CR&DI etc
Develop Linkages – Donors, Industry, University and GoP
# Identify global donors for specific and identified technologies
# Establish International Linkages and coordinate with Technology Donors
# Coordinate Technical Interventions between GoP and non-government organizations
# Map any overlapping interventions by organisations like SMEDA, PIDC, NPO, TEVTA, Labour Dept, UNIDO, World Bank etc
# Limit parallel activities and increase effectiveness through a 'Technology Upgradation Roadmap’
# Establish linkages between universities and industry
Funding
# Manage a Technology Upgradation and Skill Development Fund (TUSDEF)
# Financing on soft-terms (low-cost loans, grants or equity) of SMEs to acquire, develop and/or upgrade technology for:
- Modernization or automation
- Improvement of product quality and processes
- Improved efficiencies and cost reductions
- Commercialisation of indigenous technologies
- Value Addition
- Self-reliance
Fashion jewelry was primarily used for stage costumes. As a theatrical device, cheap but flashy jewelry was needed on stage.Instead of using valuable metal, real precious stones or gems, costume jewelry is carved out of less valuable materials, including glass , plastic, base metals, bone, shells , and an array of materials.
From the glittery and attractive costumes of the performers on stage, fashion jewelry has crept onto the heart of international fashion society. People are charmed by the beauty and elegance of fashion jewelry. They are cheap and affordable, yet exquisite in looks.
Crafts in Pakistan presents a unique collection of fashion jewelry, made by traditional craftsmen of Pakistan and celebrated all over the world. Being made of shell, bone, beads and a variety of other materials, they are cheap, beautiful and a perfect blend of fashion and tradition.
# TUSDEC (Technology Upgradation and Skill Development Company) has been established by Pakistan's Ministry of
Industries and Production to upgrade technology and skills of key and strategic industrial clusters and connect Pakistan to the global value chain
# TUSDEC is a Guarantee Limited Company, wholly owned by Government of Pakistan but managed by the private sector
Their Mission is:
To upgrade technology and skills of key and strategic industrial clusters and connect Pakistan to the global value chain.
Jump the Curve:
Assimilation of technology upgrades help expedite value-addition while enhancing productivity. Mass production of high-value products will ultimately bootstrap the economy to increase the gross domestic product (GDP). Technology upgrades in developing countries can take them to the next development/time curve. In Pakistan, with abundant human resource, the use of modern techniques and skill development will help 'jump the curve' to the next orbit of economic progress. A series of 'jumps' to higher levels through technology upgrades will close the gap to reach parity with the developed world.
Activities of TUSDEC:
Research
# Research on technologies in use in Pakistan with global benchmarking
# Research latest technologies available for upgrading important industrial sectors
# Technology Gap Analysis of industrial clusters and assess impact on GDP
# Develop technology databases
# Assist and support industrial clusters on technology acquisition
# Identify shortcomings in installed technology and impact on derivative products
Upgrade Common Technology needs of an Industrial Cluster/Sector
# Common Facility Centres
# Technology Upgadation Centres
# CAD/CAM Centres
# Skill Development Centres
# Support Centres
# Maintenance Centres
# Incubation Centres
# Testing & Accreditation facilities
# Transform existing CFCs like PITAC, CR&DI etc
Develop Linkages – Donors, Industry, University and GoP
# Identify global donors for specific and identified technologies
# Establish International Linkages and coordinate with Technology Donors
# Coordinate Technical Interventions between GoP and non-government organizations
# Map any overlapping interventions by organisations like SMEDA, PIDC, NPO, TEVTA, Labour Dept, UNIDO, World Bank etc
# Limit parallel activities and increase effectiveness through a 'Technology Upgradation Roadmap’
# Establish linkages between universities and industry
Funding
# Manage a Technology Upgradation and Skill Development Fund (TUSDEF)
# Financing on soft-terms (low-cost loans, grants or equity) of SMEs to acquire, develop and/or upgrade technology for:
- Modernization or automation
- Improvement of product quality and processes
- Improved efficiencies and cost reductions
- Commercialisation of indigenous technologies
- Value Addition
- Self-reliance
Dental braces and their best care
How Do I Take Care of My Dental Braces?
When your mouth is loaded with extras like bands, brackets, and wires, from your orthodontic braces, brushing your teeth gets tougher and extra important. Plus, dental braces interfere with the chewing process that normally bathes and exercises gums, and helps clean teeth. General dental care like caring for your teeth and keeping them cavity-free, is a top priority during orthodontics treatment.
While proper-fitting bands or brackets usually protect the covered portion of your teeth, the brackets and wires on the outside of teeth make it harder for proper dental care.
Trapped food particles and plaque are a breeding ground for cavity-causing bacteria in your dental braces. Gum disease also can develop, causing swelling and making cleaning even more challenging and painful. Improper dental care can also stain tooth enamel.
How Often Do I Need to Brush With Dental Braces?
It's best to brush within five minutes after eating anything, even if you're just snacking, and especially after a meal. Brushing away cavity-causing bacteria helps keep your teeth cavity-free. Carry a travel toothbrush in a backpack, purse or briefcase to always have on hand for brushing away from home.
How Do I Brush With Dental Braces On My Teeth?
• Brush between wires and gums to loosen any food particles that may have lodged in your dental braces. There are special toothbrushes for this, check with your orthodontist or dental care provider for recommendations.
• Start on the outside of your upper teeth, positioning the bristles at a 45 degree angle, toward the gum. Brush two to three teeth at a time using a circular motion, about ten strokes.
• Next, brush the inner surfaces in the same manner.
• Brush the chewing surfaces.
• Repeat the same process for the lower teeth as for the upper ones.
• Rinse your mouth as well as your toothbrush. Check your teeth in a mirror to make sure you've brushed all tooth surfaces.
• Floss daily between dental braces using a floss threader.
• Toothpicks, stimudents and other interdental devices work well under brackets.
You may also want to use a water oral hygiene device that helps to remove food particles from your dental braces that the toothbrush may not reach. It should be used in addition to brushing and flossing, not as a substitute for brushing.
While wearing dental braces, be sure to schedule regular dental care exams every three to six months for cleanings to keep your teeth and gums healthy. Ask your dentist and orthodontist how often they wish to see you.
Orthodontic treatment (braces)
What is orthodontic treatment?
Orthodontic treatment is a way of straightening or moving teeth, to improve the appearance of the teeth and how they work. It can also help to look after the long-term health of the teeth, gums and jaw joints, by spreading the biting pressure over all the teeth.
Why should I have orthodontic treatment?
Many people have crowded or crooked teeth. Orthodontic treatment will straighten the teeth or move them into a better position. This can not only improve their appearance but also the way the teeth bite together, while also making them easier to clean.
In some patients the upper front teeth can stick out and look unsightly. These ‘prominent’ teeth are more likely to be damaged, but orthodontic treatment can move them back into line. In others, the way the upper and lower jaws meet can cause teeth to look unsightly and lead to an incorrect bite. Orthodontic treatment may be able to correct both.
When the teeth don’t meet correctly, this can put strain on the muscles of the jaw, causing jaw and joint problems and in some cases headaches. Orthodontic treatment can help you to bite more evenly and reduce the strain.
At what age should I have orthodontic treatment?
Orthodontic treatment is generally best carried out in children, but adults can have orthodontic treatment too – and more and more are doing. Age is less important than having the proper number of teeth. In children it may be necessary to wait for enough teeth to come through before starting treatment.
Who carries out orthodontics?
Any dentist may carry out orthodontic treatment. Or the dentist may send the person to a specialist who has extra qualifications. The specialist may be in a practice or in a hospital department, and is called an orthodontist.
What does it involve?
The most important thing is to have a full examination. This will usually involve looking at your teeth, taking x-rays and making plaster models of your teeth.
Your dentist or orthodontist will then discuss what treatment is possible. Once you are sure you want to go ahead, the treatment can begin as soon as you have enough permanent teeth.
Will I need to have teeth taken out to make room?
You may not have enough room for all your permanent teeth and so it may be necessary to take out some permanent teeth to make space. Your dentist will tell you whether this is the case. Sometimes space can be created using other forms of treatment.
How is treatment carried out?
Orthodontic treatment can be done by many sorts of appliances, which most people know as ‘braces’.
What is a removable appliance?
Simple treatment may be carried out with a removable appliance (a plate that can be taken out to be cleaned). It has delicate wires and springs attached, which move the teeth using gentle pressure.
What is a functional appliance?
It is sometimes possible to change the way the jaws grow, using orthodontic appliances. These functional appliances use the power of your jaw muscles and can help with certain types of problem.
What is a fixed appliance?
Often, teeth need to be guided more accurately than they can be using a removable plate. So fixed appliances are used. These have brackets and bands temporarily stuck to the teeth. A flexible wire joins all the brackets and allows the teeth to be moved. It is not possible for the patient to take the appliance out and so it is called a fixed appliance.
What are the brackets made of?
Fixed braces are not always made of metal. Plastic and ceramic can be used, especially for adults. You cannot generally get these braces on the NHS, but they are offered as a private treatment option.
What is headgear?
As well as an appliance it is sometimes necessary to wear headgear. You usually only need to wear it in the evening or at night. If you do not wear it in the way you have been told, your front teeth will stick out at the end of treatment.
What are elastics?
It may be necessary to attach delicate elastic bands to a fixed brace to help move the teeth. Your orthodontist will tell you if you need elastics.
What are ‘invisible braces’?
They are tough, clear plastic ‘aligners’ (moulds) that are used to straighten teeth. Several sets of specially moulded, slightly different aligners are made for each patient. Each set is worn for two weeks before being replaced with the next one. They are made from clear plastic, so they are nearly invisible. This means that no one need know you are straightening your teeth.
The aligners should be worn for 22 to 23 hours a day for the best results. They can be easily removed for eating, drinking, brushing and flossing. You need to have all your adult teeth before you can have this treatment
How long will it take?
The length of treatment depends on how severe the problem is, and may take anything from a few months to two and a half years. Most people can be treated in one to two years.
What happens when the teeth are in the right position?
When treatment is finished the teeth need to be held in position for a time. This period is called retention, and the appliances that hold the teeth in place are called retainers.
The retainers hold newly straightened teeth in position while the surrounding gum and bone settles. The retainers can be removable or fixed depending on the original problem.
How many visits will it take?
Orthodontic appliances usually need adjusting every 4 to 6 weeks. Your orthodontist will tell you how often your appliance will need adjusting.
Will it hurt?
All appliances may feel strange to begin with and can cause discomfort. If the problem doesn’t go away the orthodontist may be able to carry out adjustments to help. Teeth are usually uncomfortable immediately after adjustment but this will settle.
How successful will it be?
Success depends on a partnership between the skills of the orthodontist, and the enthusiasm and help of patient and parents. It is important to attend regularly and carry out any instructions given by the orthodontist.
The success of the treatment also depends on the commitment of the patient. For children’s orthodontic treatment it is very important that the patient is as keen as the parent.
Can orthodontics damage my teeth?
Your teeth can be damaged if they are not properly looked after during treatment. Appliances will not in themselves cause damage, but poor cleaning and too many sugary foods and drinks can cause permanent damage. Brackets, wires and braces can trap food and cause more plaque than usual to build up. So the teeth and appliance need to be cleaned very thoroughly.
Is orthodontic work permanent?
Even after retention, it is normal for minor tooth movements to happen throughout life, so no permanent guarantee can be given. However, it is unusual for teeth to alter enough to need further treatment.
How do I go about getting orthodontic treatment?
The first thing to do is to go along to your own dentist and get his or her advice. Your dentist will know whether you need treatment and make the necessary arrangements.
How much does it cost?
You can have orthodontic treatment under the National Health Service or as a private patient. National Health treatment is free for children up to the age of 18 and students up to the age of 19 based as long as there is a clinical need. Other people entitled to free treatment are patients on a low income, pregnant women and nursing mothers. Everyone else has to pay the NHS charges. There is no charge for treatment in hospital departments.
You will only be entitled to treatment under the NHS if your condition is serious. Minor problems may be classed as cosmetic and would therefore be charged privately.
If you decide to have treatment privately, the orthodontist will be able to estimate the cost of your treatment and give you details. It is always a good idea to discuss the cost fully before treatment and, if necessary, have the cost confirmed in writing to avoid any confusion.
How do I care for my brace and teeth?
It is important to continue to have your teeth checked by your dentist while having orthodontic treatment. You also need to take extra care of your teeth and mouth: 1 Clean your teeth carefully every day, including between your teeth where you can. Appliances are delicate and you need to make sure you clean them carefully so that they do not break. Your dentist or hygienist will be able to show you the special techniques to use depending on the appliance you are wearing.
2 Cut down on how often you have sugary foods and drinks. Avoid ‘snacking’ on foods or drinks containing sugars, and on fizzy drinks. Also, sticky and hard foods may damage the delicate orthodontic appliances.
3 Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and, if necessary, use a mouthwash. Your dentist or hygienist may recommend a fluoride toothpaste or application for you to use. Look for a product carrying the British Dental Health Foundation’s accreditation logo. This shows that the product has been checked by a panel of experts and does what it says on the packet.
When your mouth is loaded with extras like bands, brackets, and wires, from your orthodontic braces, brushing your teeth gets tougher and extra important. Plus, dental braces interfere with the chewing process that normally bathes and exercises gums, and helps clean teeth. General dental care like caring for your teeth and keeping them cavity-free, is a top priority during orthodontics treatment.
While proper-fitting bands or brackets usually protect the covered portion of your teeth, the brackets and wires on the outside of teeth make it harder for proper dental care.
Trapped food particles and plaque are a breeding ground for cavity-causing bacteria in your dental braces. Gum disease also can develop, causing swelling and making cleaning even more challenging and painful. Improper dental care can also stain tooth enamel.
How Often Do I Need to Brush With Dental Braces?
It's best to brush within five minutes after eating anything, even if you're just snacking, and especially after a meal. Brushing away cavity-causing bacteria helps keep your teeth cavity-free. Carry a travel toothbrush in a backpack, purse or briefcase to always have on hand for brushing away from home.
How Do I Brush With Dental Braces On My Teeth?
• Brush between wires and gums to loosen any food particles that may have lodged in your dental braces. There are special toothbrushes for this, check with your orthodontist or dental care provider for recommendations.
• Start on the outside of your upper teeth, positioning the bristles at a 45 degree angle, toward the gum. Brush two to three teeth at a time using a circular motion, about ten strokes.
• Next, brush the inner surfaces in the same manner.
• Brush the chewing surfaces.
• Repeat the same process for the lower teeth as for the upper ones.
• Rinse your mouth as well as your toothbrush. Check your teeth in a mirror to make sure you've brushed all tooth surfaces.
• Floss daily between dental braces using a floss threader.
• Toothpicks, stimudents and other interdental devices work well under brackets.
You may also want to use a water oral hygiene device that helps to remove food particles from your dental braces that the toothbrush may not reach. It should be used in addition to brushing and flossing, not as a substitute for brushing.
While wearing dental braces, be sure to schedule regular dental care exams every three to six months for cleanings to keep your teeth and gums healthy. Ask your dentist and orthodontist how often they wish to see you.
Orthodontic treatment (braces)
What is orthodontic treatment?
Orthodontic treatment is a way of straightening or moving teeth, to improve the appearance of the teeth and how they work. It can also help to look after the long-term health of the teeth, gums and jaw joints, by spreading the biting pressure over all the teeth.
Why should I have orthodontic treatment?
Many people have crowded or crooked teeth. Orthodontic treatment will straighten the teeth or move them into a better position. This can not only improve their appearance but also the way the teeth bite together, while also making them easier to clean.
In some patients the upper front teeth can stick out and look unsightly. These ‘prominent’ teeth are more likely to be damaged, but orthodontic treatment can move them back into line. In others, the way the upper and lower jaws meet can cause teeth to look unsightly and lead to an incorrect bite. Orthodontic treatment may be able to correct both.
When the teeth don’t meet correctly, this can put strain on the muscles of the jaw, causing jaw and joint problems and in some cases headaches. Orthodontic treatment can help you to bite more evenly and reduce the strain.
At what age should I have orthodontic treatment?
Orthodontic treatment is generally best carried out in children, but adults can have orthodontic treatment too – and more and more are doing. Age is less important than having the proper number of teeth. In children it may be necessary to wait for enough teeth to come through before starting treatment.
Who carries out orthodontics?
Any dentist may carry out orthodontic treatment. Or the dentist may send the person to a specialist who has extra qualifications. The specialist may be in a practice or in a hospital department, and is called an orthodontist.
What does it involve?
The most important thing is to have a full examination. This will usually involve looking at your teeth, taking x-rays and making plaster models of your teeth.
Your dentist or orthodontist will then discuss what treatment is possible. Once you are sure you want to go ahead, the treatment can begin as soon as you have enough permanent teeth.
Will I need to have teeth taken out to make room?
You may not have enough room for all your permanent teeth and so it may be necessary to take out some permanent teeth to make space. Your dentist will tell you whether this is the case. Sometimes space can be created using other forms of treatment.
How is treatment carried out?
Orthodontic treatment can be done by many sorts of appliances, which most people know as ‘braces’.
What is a removable appliance?
Simple treatment may be carried out with a removable appliance (a plate that can be taken out to be cleaned). It has delicate wires and springs attached, which move the teeth using gentle pressure.
What is a functional appliance?
It is sometimes possible to change the way the jaws grow, using orthodontic appliances. These functional appliances use the power of your jaw muscles and can help with certain types of problem.
What is a fixed appliance?
Often, teeth need to be guided more accurately than they can be using a removable plate. So fixed appliances are used. These have brackets and bands temporarily stuck to the teeth. A flexible wire joins all the brackets and allows the teeth to be moved. It is not possible for the patient to take the appliance out and so it is called a fixed appliance.
What are the brackets made of?
Fixed braces are not always made of metal. Plastic and ceramic can be used, especially for adults. You cannot generally get these braces on the NHS, but they are offered as a private treatment option.
What is headgear?
As well as an appliance it is sometimes necessary to wear headgear. You usually only need to wear it in the evening or at night. If you do not wear it in the way you have been told, your front teeth will stick out at the end of treatment.
What are elastics?
It may be necessary to attach delicate elastic bands to a fixed brace to help move the teeth. Your orthodontist will tell you if you need elastics.
What are ‘invisible braces’?
They are tough, clear plastic ‘aligners’ (moulds) that are used to straighten teeth. Several sets of specially moulded, slightly different aligners are made for each patient. Each set is worn for two weeks before being replaced with the next one. They are made from clear plastic, so they are nearly invisible. This means that no one need know you are straightening your teeth.
The aligners should be worn for 22 to 23 hours a day for the best results. They can be easily removed for eating, drinking, brushing and flossing. You need to have all your adult teeth before you can have this treatment
How long will it take?
The length of treatment depends on how severe the problem is, and may take anything from a few months to two and a half years. Most people can be treated in one to two years.
What happens when the teeth are in the right position?
When treatment is finished the teeth need to be held in position for a time. This period is called retention, and the appliances that hold the teeth in place are called retainers.
The retainers hold newly straightened teeth in position while the surrounding gum and bone settles. The retainers can be removable or fixed depending on the original problem.
How many visits will it take?
Orthodontic appliances usually need adjusting every 4 to 6 weeks. Your orthodontist will tell you how often your appliance will need adjusting.
Will it hurt?
All appliances may feel strange to begin with and can cause discomfort. If the problem doesn’t go away the orthodontist may be able to carry out adjustments to help. Teeth are usually uncomfortable immediately after adjustment but this will settle.
How successful will it be?
Success depends on a partnership between the skills of the orthodontist, and the enthusiasm and help of patient and parents. It is important to attend regularly and carry out any instructions given by the orthodontist.
The success of the treatment also depends on the commitment of the patient. For children’s orthodontic treatment it is very important that the patient is as keen as the parent.
Can orthodontics damage my teeth?
Your teeth can be damaged if they are not properly looked after during treatment. Appliances will not in themselves cause damage, but poor cleaning and too many sugary foods and drinks can cause permanent damage. Brackets, wires and braces can trap food and cause more plaque than usual to build up. So the teeth and appliance need to be cleaned very thoroughly.
Is orthodontic work permanent?
Even after retention, it is normal for minor tooth movements to happen throughout life, so no permanent guarantee can be given. However, it is unusual for teeth to alter enough to need further treatment.
How do I go about getting orthodontic treatment?
The first thing to do is to go along to your own dentist and get his or her advice. Your dentist will know whether you need treatment and make the necessary arrangements.
How much does it cost?
You can have orthodontic treatment under the National Health Service or as a private patient. National Health treatment is free for children up to the age of 18 and students up to the age of 19 based as long as there is a clinical need. Other people entitled to free treatment are patients on a low income, pregnant women and nursing mothers. Everyone else has to pay the NHS charges. There is no charge for treatment in hospital departments.
You will only be entitled to treatment under the NHS if your condition is serious. Minor problems may be classed as cosmetic and would therefore be charged privately.
If you decide to have treatment privately, the orthodontist will be able to estimate the cost of your treatment and give you details. It is always a good idea to discuss the cost fully before treatment and, if necessary, have the cost confirmed in writing to avoid any confusion.
How do I care for my brace and teeth?
It is important to continue to have your teeth checked by your dentist while having orthodontic treatment. You also need to take extra care of your teeth and mouth: 1 Clean your teeth carefully every day, including between your teeth where you can. Appliances are delicate and you need to make sure you clean them carefully so that they do not break. Your dentist or hygienist will be able to show you the special techniques to use depending on the appliance you are wearing.
2 Cut down on how often you have sugary foods and drinks. Avoid ‘snacking’ on foods or drinks containing sugars, and on fizzy drinks. Also, sticky and hard foods may damage the delicate orthodontic appliances.
3 Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and, if necessary, use a mouthwash. Your dentist or hygienist may recommend a fluoride toothpaste or application for you to use. Look for a product carrying the British Dental Health Foundation’s accreditation logo. This shows that the product has been checked by a panel of experts and does what it says on the packet.
3D computer graphics (in contrast to 2D computer graphics) are graphics that use a three-dimensional representation
of geometric data that is stored in the computer for the purposes of performing calculations and rendering 2D
images. Such images may be for later display or for real-time viewing. Despite these differences, 3D computer
graphics rely on many of the same algorithms as 2D computer vector graphics in the wire-frame model and 2D computer
raster graphics in the final rendered display. In computer graphics software, the distinction between 2D and 3D is
occasionally blurred; 2D applications may use 3D techniques to achieve effects such as lighting, and primarily 3D
may use 2D rendering techniques. 3D computer graphics are often referred to as 3D models. Apart from the rendered
graphic, the model is contained within the graphical data file. However, there are differences. A 3D model is the
mathematical representation of any three-dimensional object (either inanimate or living). A model is not technically
a graphic until it is visually displayed. Due to 3D printing, 3D models are not confined to virtual space. A model
can be displayed visually as a two-dimensional image through a process called 3D rendering, or used in non-graphical
computer simulations and calculations.
The process of creating 3D computer graphics can be sequentially divided into three basic phases: 3D modeling which
describes the process of forming the shape of an object, layout and animation which describes the motion and
placement of objects within a scene, and 3D rendering which produces an image of an object.
The model describes the process of forming the shape of an object. The two most common sources of 3D models are
those originated on the computer by an artist or engineer using some kind of 3D modeling tool, and those scanned
into a computer from real-world objects. Models can also be produced procedurally or via physical simulation.
Before objects are rendered, they must be placed (laid out) within a scene. This is what defines the spatial
relationships between objects in a scene including location and size. Animation refers to the temporal description
of an object, i.e., how it moves and deforms over time. Popular methods include keyframing, inverse kinematics, and
motion capture, though many of these techniques are used in conjunction with each other. As with modeling, physical
simulation is another way of specifying motion.
Rendering converts a model into an image either by simulating light transport to get photorealistic images, or by
applying some kind of style as in non-photorealistic rendering. The two basic operations in realistic rendering are
transport (how much light gets from one place to another) and scattering (how surfaces interact with light). This
step is usually performed using 3D computer graphics software or a 3D graphics API. The process of altering the
scene into a suitable form for rendering also involves 3D projection which allows a three-dimensional image to be
viewed in two dimensions.
There are a multitude of websites designed to help educate and support 3D graphic artists. Some are managed by
software developers and content providers, but there are standalone sites as well (such as Renderosity). These
communities allow for members to seek advice, post tutorials, provide product reviews or post examples of their own
work.
Not all computer graphics that appear 3D are based on a wireframe model. 2D computer graphics with 3D photorealistic
effects are often achieved without wireframe modeling and are sometimes indistinguishable in the final form. Some
graphic art software includes filters that can be applied to 2D vector graphics or 2D raster graphics on transparent
layers. Visual artists may also copy or visualize 3D effects and manually render photorealistic effects without the
use of filters. See also still life
of geometric data that is stored in the computer for the purposes of performing calculations and rendering 2D
images. Such images may be for later display or for real-time viewing. Despite these differences, 3D computer
graphics rely on many of the same algorithms as 2D computer vector graphics in the wire-frame model and 2D computer
raster graphics in the final rendered display. In computer graphics software, the distinction between 2D and 3D is
occasionally blurred; 2D applications may use 3D techniques to achieve effects such as lighting, and primarily 3D
may use 2D rendering techniques. 3D computer graphics are often referred to as 3D models. Apart from the rendered
graphic, the model is contained within the graphical data file. However, there are differences. A 3D model is the
mathematical representation of any three-dimensional object (either inanimate or living). A model is not technically
a graphic until it is visually displayed. Due to 3D printing, 3D models are not confined to virtual space. A model
can be displayed visually as a two-dimensional image through a process called 3D rendering, or used in non-graphical
computer simulations and calculations.
The process of creating 3D computer graphics can be sequentially divided into three basic phases: 3D modeling which
describes the process of forming the shape of an object, layout and animation which describes the motion and
placement of objects within a scene, and 3D rendering which produces an image of an object.
The model describes the process of forming the shape of an object. The two most common sources of 3D models are
those originated on the computer by an artist or engineer using some kind of 3D modeling tool, and those scanned
into a computer from real-world objects. Models can also be produced procedurally or via physical simulation.
Before objects are rendered, they must be placed (laid out) within a scene. This is what defines the spatial
relationships between objects in a scene including location and size. Animation refers to the temporal description
of an object, i.e., how it moves and deforms over time. Popular methods include keyframing, inverse kinematics, and
motion capture, though many of these techniques are used in conjunction with each other. As with modeling, physical
simulation is another way of specifying motion.
Rendering converts a model into an image either by simulating light transport to get photorealistic images, or by
applying some kind of style as in non-photorealistic rendering. The two basic operations in realistic rendering are
transport (how much light gets from one place to another) and scattering (how surfaces interact with light). This
step is usually performed using 3D computer graphics software or a 3D graphics API. The process of altering the
scene into a suitable form for rendering also involves 3D projection which allows a three-dimensional image to be
viewed in two dimensions.
There are a multitude of websites designed to help educate and support 3D graphic artists. Some are managed by
software developers and content providers, but there are standalone sites as well (such as Renderosity). These
communities allow for members to seek advice, post tutorials, provide product reviews or post examples of their own
work.
Not all computer graphics that appear 3D are based on a wireframe model. 2D computer graphics with 3D photorealistic
effects are often achieved without wireframe modeling and are sometimes indistinguishable in the final form. Some
graphic art software includes filters that can be applied to 2D vector graphics or 2D raster graphics on transparent
layers. Visual artists may also copy or visualize 3D effects and manually render photorealistic effects without the
use of filters. See also still life
commercial biologics
Most of the 700 workers at Icos, the developer of erectile-dysfunction drug Cialis, were axed in 2007 when it was acquired by pharmaceutical giant Lilly.
But its contract-manufacturing division, now in the hands of a Danish company, lives on — and is poised for an expansion that could create welcome new jobs in the much-battered local biotechnology sector.
CMC Icos Biologics, as the unit is now known, will break ground next month on a $35 million project at its Bothell headquarters that will nearly double its 135-strong work force and quintuple its capacity to churn out compounds for biotechnology companies.
The project is expected to be completed by mid-2010, said CMC Icos Biologics President Gustavo Mahler.
Born in Argentina, Mahler, a veteran executive formerly with Bayer Healthcare, was hired in April to preside over what he calls a business with "substantial momentum."
CMC Icos Biologics' bid for growth comes amid a widespread downsizing in the local biotechnology sector. In recent months, companies such as Nastech Pharmaceuticals and Northstar Neurosciences have shed dozens of jobs and refocused their research efforts after key clinical trials failed.
In August, Sonus Pharmaceuticals merged with Vancouver, B.C.'s OncoGenex Technologies and fired most of its Bothell staff.
ZymoGenetics, which employs more people than any other independent local biotech, also laid off some personnel at the beginning of the year.
CMC's business model, however, differs from the region's research-oriented biotechnology companies. It develops and manufactures drugs for biotech firms engaged in clinical trials, most of which are "virtual biotechs" that don't have the resources or need to have their own manufacturing facilities, Mahler said.
The company recently finished a $3 million remodel that enables it to go beyond manufacturing material for clinical trials, to producing market-ready drugs. The anticipated expansion will augment that commercial-scale manufacturing capacity.
CMC Icos Biologics has signed new clients since Mahler's tenure began, and is in the midst of a major ramp-up.
Its current contracts are with undisclosed biotech firms on both coasts of the U.S. and it is in conversations with local companies, said the 41-year-old executive.
Icos began manufacturing clinical compounds for other companies in 2000 to put its state-of-the-art facilities to use after disappointing results in its own biologics-research pipeline.
The operation lived in the shadow of Cialis, the drug that made Icos a big success and outlived the company.
When partner Eli Lilly bought Icos for about $2.3 billion early last year, it quickly fired most employees but kept the manufacturing unit, which had contracts to fulfill.
Lilly and the remaining management at Icos shopped around the unit, aiming to keep it intact. CMC, a closely held biotech contract manufacturer founded in 2004, bought the facility last December, as it sought to establish a beachhead in the U.S. biopharmaceutical industry.
"It was clear that the West Coast was the right marketplace to be," Mahler said. Some of the industry's greatest hubs are the San Francisco Bay Area and San Diego.
The purchase, for an undisclosed amount, significantly increased CMC's production capacity and payroll; the combined company has 350 employees.
The labs resemble a space-age brewery: white-clad technicians walk among huge, shiny metal vats growing the cells that produce biotech therapies.
CMC also inherited an established group of workers, many of whom had developed research expertise working for Icos in the early days.
"When a team has some years of working together, that improves performance," Mahler said.
The facility's workers also provided some input to Lilly when prospective buyers came in to kick the tires of the operation, said human-resources manager Mark Honda.
"They wanted to sell the company to the best fit," Honda said.
CMC Icos Biologics' planned expansion also comes with its challenges.
All of the facility's manufacturing employees have bachelor's degrees in the sciences, an appropriate background for manufacturing clinical-stage experimental products, said David Shank, senior director of manufacturing.
But once the company starts producing drugs at a commercial scale, using more standardized procedures, it is going to need a "fairly large" staff of technicians with lower education requirements.
The company is in early talks with local schools and colleges to plan on how to provide the required technical training.
"This is going to be the biggest operation" in commercial biologics manufacturing in the Seattle area, Shank said.
The region already has a reputation for biotech manufacturing.
Amgen has a large clinical manufacturing facility in Bothell that employs 200 people.
Bayer Healthcare has commercial-manufacturing operations in Seattle and Bothell, 170 strong, which it plans to consolidate into a new facility in Lynnwood.
SimBiology Software Provides a Platform for Model Creation, Stimulation, and Analysis
Minimizing Challenges in Biological Modeling
Modeling has long played a key role in the drug discovery process, from isolating drug targets to screening and pharmacokinetics. Many pharmaceutical companies are currently facing patent expirations without replacement candidates in the pipeline or are struggling with high candidate attrition. Leaner pipelines result in necessary cost decreases, which can often lead to staff reductions. These struggles underscore the need for successful modeling in pharmaceutical R&D.As a result of this elevated intensity, the needs of pharma modelers have also drastically increased. In general, pharma modelers face two main tasks: first, to complete their projects quickly and second, to communicate their results to their peers in the scientific community and to corporate managers.
Modelers spend a great deal of time integrating various tools into their workflow to create a piecemeal solution that fits their needs. They use one tool to model data, another to perform simulation, and perhaps yet another tool for analysis. Once they have results, researchers will spend an even larger amount of time transferring the results into a format that scientists or executives will understand. This workflow is inefficient and an expensive waste of time.
Creation of MathWorks' (www.mathworks.com) SimBiology software was driven by customer demand to provide a modeling environment that minimizes this inefficiency. Modelers can perform their entire project workflow in a single environment, from creating a model to simulation and analysis. The interface is graphical so modelers have a pathway diagram to easily communicate with scientists and management, yet the underlying technology is mathematically strong to meet modelers’ needs.
Method of Operation
SimBiology offers several different modes of interaction, all of which are fully integrated. The SimBiology desktop is a customizable graphical user interface (GUI) that offers a point-and-click environment for modeling. Modelers can move windows around the desktop using drag and drop or menu selections. Within the desktop, the block diagram editor allows users to work with the graphical view of their model in a drag-and-drop environment. This includes a library of predefined blocks users can use to create models. Lastly, for modelers who prefer to automate their modeling and analysis, all functionality can also be accessed from the command line.
SimBiology models consist of compartments, species, parameters, reactions, events, rules, kinetic laws, and units. Users are presented with a variety of ways to create models such as dragging and dropping predefined blocks in the block diagram editor, entering equations and relevant parameters into the GUI, or by importing SBML files. Once a model has been created, the appearance of graphical entities can be altered, including replacing the entity with an image, to better visually communicate or organize a model (Figure 1). Any altered entity can be saved into a library for future reuse. Annotations such as references or notes can also be added to any entity by double-clicking on the element in the diagram editor.
Kinetic laws and units characterize the dynamics of the model. Kinetic laws and units are presented as built-in libraries or user-defined laws, and users can also add units. Variants, or alternate values for parameters, are applied to the model if users want to study various values for model components without creating a new model.
The output or response of a model such as concentration as a function of time can be determined by simulating the model with either stochastic or deterministic solvers. Results display in a figure window or can be embedded into the block diagram editor (Figure 1). Simulation events can be applied to the model to define a sudden change in model behavior such as a bolus injection given to a patient.Once a model is constructed, analyzing that model helps users gain insight into it. Tasks such as sensitivity analysis can be added to a model to isolate those components most likely to have an impact on the desired output. Or users can perform parameter estimation (Figure 2) to fit values of missing parameters to experimental data. Analyis is performed by selecting the relevant task, which is then added to the model browser and is executed by clicking the Run button. Users can also create user-defined tasks and include them in models, or share them with peer modelers for reuse.
Modeling can only be effective if the results can be communicated easily and clearly to the relevant audiences. Converting scripts or results into intuitive graphs or models is time-consuming and sometimes ineffective. Results must be in a format and language the intended recipients can decipher.
In SimBiology, users can automatically generate a customizable HTML report by clicking on model component types such as the graphical layout of the model, graphical output, or tables in the SimBiology report generator. In addition, graphical images of the model can be exported to leverage the visual nature of the model. Images from the model can also be exported as SBML files.
Modelers at pharmaceutical and biotech companies are under a great a deal of pressure to help alleviate some of the challenges that pharmaceutical researchers and developers are experiencing. The sheer nature of biological research is complex, and trying to create a model to represent biological systems is even more so. Strong modeling capabilities can bring significant value and competitive advantage to a pharmaceutical company. With the right software platform, companies will start to see the increase in efficiency that they are currently seeking.
Best Health Insurance
The term health insurance is generally used to describe a form of insurance that pays for medical expenses. It is sometimes used more broadly to include insurance covering disability or long-term nursing or custodial care needs.
It may be provided through a government-sponsored social insurance program, or from private insurance companies. It may be purchased on a group basis (e.g., by a firm to cover its employees) or purchased by individual consumers. In each case, the covered groups or individuals pay premiums or taxes to help protect themselves from high or unexpected healthcare expenses. Similar benefits paying for medical expenses may also be provided through social welfare programs funded by the government.
By estimating the overall risk of healthcare expenses, a routine finance structure (such as a monthly premium or annual tax) can be developed, ensuring that money is available to pay for the healthcare benefits specified in the insurance agreement. The benefit is administered by a central organization, most often either a government agency or a private or not-for-profit entity operating a health plan.
Historical Background Of Health Insurance
A brief history of health insurance coverage reveals that in the aftermath of World War II, the US government sought to provide maximum benefits to the populations in her efforts to reduce the burden otherwise incurred on rise in wages. This policy continued for a number of years, until the introduction of relevant laws in 1950 to provide Medicare for the needy populations of the state.
This was also the first time that the government participated in any form of financing health care on behalf of the populations, and this was accomplished through direct payment to the various health care providers including doctors, physicians and hospitals.
The U.S Government Played A Vital Role In Introducing Health Care Insurance
The US government also introduced the famous "Medical Assistance to the Aged" legislation in the decade of 1960s, opening doors of medical assistance and other health care services to the elderly and poor populations though putting restrictions on the extent of medical expenses.
This was followed by the passage of legislation for the establishment of 'Medicare and Medicaid Programs' in 1965 making a part of the Social Security Act. Responsibilities of these programs was entrusted to the Department of Health, Education and Welfare, all of who are presently covered under a single department of Health and Human Services.
The Medicare program was however run by the Social Security Administration, while the Medicaid program was run by the Social and Rehabilitation Service. Both these areas were then transferred to the newly formed Health Care Financing Administration (HCFA) as of year 1977, and renamed again as the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS).
If You Opt For Low Cost Health Insurance, What Are The Advantages and Disadvantages At the moment healthcare costs in the U.S are spiraling out of control. Health insurance premiums are going up and most people now cannot even afford basic health care insurance. Low cost health insurance is an affordable alternative to normal health insurance coverage.
So what exactly is low cost health insurance? Well, low cost health insurance is basically insurance available at a more affordable or low rate. Here the premium that you pay is a small amount. With low cost health insurance, you do not have to really worry about the medical bills that you will incur. The main aim of low cost health insurance coverage is to look after the health of yourself and your family in an inexpensive manner.
However there are some big disadvantages to low cost health insurance. This is because as you are paying lower premiums this means that you are getting less benefits and coverage.
So what is a good health insurance policy? A good health insurance policy contains several types of coverage. Basic insurance includes hospital, surgical, and physicians' expense. In addition, major medical coverage is necessary in case of an accident or illness. These may be purchased separately, but you will get more complete coverage if they are combined in a single policy.
Basic Coverage
Hospital expense insurance pays for your room and board costs if you are hospitalized. Additionally this insurance typically covers other expenses, such as use of the operating room, x-rays, drugs, anesthesia, and laboratory charges.
Surgical Expense Insurance
Surgical expense insurance pays surgeons' fees and costs related to surgery. Related costs may include assistant surgeon fees, anesthesiologist fees, or operating room charges. Surgical expense benefits are generally paid according to a set schedule.
Physicians' Expense Insurance
Physicians' expense insurance pays for visits to a doctor's office or hospital visits. Usually, the health policy specifies a maximum number of visits per injury or illness.
Major Medical Insurance Major medical insurance is designed to protect against major accidents or illness. It is usually a broad policy with high maximum benefits. Most major medical policies provide at least $250,000 of coverage. And although coverage can vary from one plan to plan, the following are included in most major medical policies:
* Hospital services and supplies (medical and surgical)
* Hospital room and board, including intensive and cardiac care
* Physicians' services (diagnostic, medical, and surgical)
* Nursing services
* Other medical practitioners' services
* Anesthesia and anesthesiologists' fees
* Ambulance service
* Laboratory and diagnostic tests, including x-rays
* Radiology and other therapy
* Blood and plasma
* Oxygen
* Dental treatment resulting from injury
* Prescription drugs
* Outpatient services
* Convalescent nursing home care
* Home health care
* Purchase of prosthetic devices
* Casts, splints, and crutches
However when people opt for low cost health care, they get very few of these benefits which can be detrimental to their health. And if they develop any fatal diseases such as cancer or AIDS their health insurance does not cover any expenses.
So while low cost health insurance is fine for some, it has plenty of disadvantages as well.
What Is The Need For Health Insurance In order for one to have a secured life, there are particular things that need to be done. Safeguarding one’s self is the most important, and this may take place in the form of a healthy lifestyle. It must be asserted that having a healthy life style is not the only thing that one needs to consider because there are unforeseen things that could happen.
Benefits Of Health Insurance
Though one may take great care of him or herself, there is always a chance of a person falling ill. This means that any type of ailment can befall a person; it may even be severe and last for a long period. Types of illnesses that can take one by surprise include cancer. This type of illness is something that requires a great deal of consideration; it needs to be considered that it requires a great deal of expense treat, and those with out treatments do not have a chance of surviving.
Though one may not be able to prevent getting a disease, there is a lot more that s/he could do to prevent having slimmer chances of survival in case of disease. If a person gets him or herself insured, treatment can be taken care of.
Health insurance is a means of backing one self up in case of unforeseen circumstances. It is a method of providing funds for treating an illness that one could get unexpectedly. A person single-handedly may not be able to take on the expenses of a serious ailment, and for this reason s/he would need help. The help that one can get is in the form of health insurance, but this requires input on a regular basis. This input is referred to as premium.
Premiums may vary by the amount one has to put in on a regular basis, and the amount is dependent on the level of coverage. The higher a person’s chances are of developing a serious ailment, the higher the premium would be. Also, the amount of coverage that one wants influences the premium and the length of insurance as well.
Considering the chances of a person developing a serious illness, it must be asserted that insurance companies need to assess a person’s condition before ensuring them. If they find out that a person has already gotten symptoms that are close to the early stages of cancer or any serious disease, the insurance company may reject the individual’s application. If they do decide to insure a person in spite of their high chance of developing a serious illness that is costly to treat, they may insure the individual for a much smaller amount.
The chances a person then has of dealing with an ailment, should it develop, will be limited. This is due to the lack of funds. Appropriate medical attention that is required cannot be supplied, and for this reason a person may die. Hence, it is advised that a person should get a medical checkup and insurance as early as possible before any disease develops. A person’s chances of survival are greater in this way, and even incase of minor illnesses one can cover a great deal of the cost.
It is better to be safe than sorry as is said, and so, getting health insurance at the earliest possible time is the best ting to do.
It may be provided through a government-sponsored social insurance program, or from private insurance companies. It may be purchased on a group basis (e.g., by a firm to cover its employees) or purchased by individual consumers. In each case, the covered groups or individuals pay premiums or taxes to help protect themselves from high or unexpected healthcare expenses. Similar benefits paying for medical expenses may also be provided through social welfare programs funded by the government.
By estimating the overall risk of healthcare expenses, a routine finance structure (such as a monthly premium or annual tax) can be developed, ensuring that money is available to pay for the healthcare benefits specified in the insurance agreement. The benefit is administered by a central organization, most often either a government agency or a private or not-for-profit entity operating a health plan.
Historical Background Of Health Insurance
A brief history of health insurance coverage reveals that in the aftermath of World War II, the US government sought to provide maximum benefits to the populations in her efforts to reduce the burden otherwise incurred on rise in wages. This policy continued for a number of years, until the introduction of relevant laws in 1950 to provide Medicare for the needy populations of the state.
This was also the first time that the government participated in any form of financing health care on behalf of the populations, and this was accomplished through direct payment to the various health care providers including doctors, physicians and hospitals.
The U.S Government Played A Vital Role In Introducing Health Care Insurance
The US government also introduced the famous "Medical Assistance to the Aged" legislation in the decade of 1960s, opening doors of medical assistance and other health care services to the elderly and poor populations though putting restrictions on the extent of medical expenses.
This was followed by the passage of legislation for the establishment of 'Medicare and Medicaid Programs' in 1965 making a part of the Social Security Act. Responsibilities of these programs was entrusted to the Department of Health, Education and Welfare, all of who are presently covered under a single department of Health and Human Services.
The Medicare program was however run by the Social Security Administration, while the Medicaid program was run by the Social and Rehabilitation Service. Both these areas were then transferred to the newly formed Health Care Financing Administration (HCFA) as of year 1977, and renamed again as the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS).
If You Opt For Low Cost Health Insurance, What Are The Advantages and Disadvantages At the moment healthcare costs in the U.S are spiraling out of control. Health insurance premiums are going up and most people now cannot even afford basic health care insurance. Low cost health insurance is an affordable alternative to normal health insurance coverage.
So what exactly is low cost health insurance? Well, low cost health insurance is basically insurance available at a more affordable or low rate. Here the premium that you pay is a small amount. With low cost health insurance, you do not have to really worry about the medical bills that you will incur. The main aim of low cost health insurance coverage is to look after the health of yourself and your family in an inexpensive manner.
However there are some big disadvantages to low cost health insurance. This is because as you are paying lower premiums this means that you are getting less benefits and coverage.
So what is a good health insurance policy? A good health insurance policy contains several types of coverage. Basic insurance includes hospital, surgical, and physicians' expense. In addition, major medical coverage is necessary in case of an accident or illness. These may be purchased separately, but you will get more complete coverage if they are combined in a single policy.
Basic Coverage
Hospital expense insurance pays for your room and board costs if you are hospitalized. Additionally this insurance typically covers other expenses, such as use of the operating room, x-rays, drugs, anesthesia, and laboratory charges.
Surgical Expense Insurance
Surgical expense insurance pays surgeons' fees and costs related to surgery. Related costs may include assistant surgeon fees, anesthesiologist fees, or operating room charges. Surgical expense benefits are generally paid according to a set schedule.
Physicians' Expense Insurance
Physicians' expense insurance pays for visits to a doctor's office or hospital visits. Usually, the health policy specifies a maximum number of visits per injury or illness.
Major Medical Insurance Major medical insurance is designed to protect against major accidents or illness. It is usually a broad policy with high maximum benefits. Most major medical policies provide at least $250,000 of coverage. And although coverage can vary from one plan to plan, the following are included in most major medical policies:
* Hospital services and supplies (medical and surgical)
* Hospital room and board, including intensive and cardiac care
* Physicians' services (diagnostic, medical, and surgical)
* Nursing services
* Other medical practitioners' services
* Anesthesia and anesthesiologists' fees
* Ambulance service
* Laboratory and diagnostic tests, including x-rays
* Radiology and other therapy
* Blood and plasma
* Oxygen
* Dental treatment resulting from injury
* Prescription drugs
* Outpatient services
* Convalescent nursing home care
* Home health care
* Purchase of prosthetic devices
* Casts, splints, and crutches
However when people opt for low cost health care, they get very few of these benefits which can be detrimental to their health. And if they develop any fatal diseases such as cancer or AIDS their health insurance does not cover any expenses.
So while low cost health insurance is fine for some, it has plenty of disadvantages as well.
What Is The Need For Health Insurance In order for one to have a secured life, there are particular things that need to be done. Safeguarding one’s self is the most important, and this may take place in the form of a healthy lifestyle. It must be asserted that having a healthy life style is not the only thing that one needs to consider because there are unforeseen things that could happen.
Benefits Of Health Insurance
Though one may take great care of him or herself, there is always a chance of a person falling ill. This means that any type of ailment can befall a person; it may even be severe and last for a long period. Types of illnesses that can take one by surprise include cancer. This type of illness is something that requires a great deal of consideration; it needs to be considered that it requires a great deal of expense treat, and those with out treatments do not have a chance of surviving.
Though one may not be able to prevent getting a disease, there is a lot more that s/he could do to prevent having slimmer chances of survival in case of disease. If a person gets him or herself insured, treatment can be taken care of.
Health insurance is a means of backing one self up in case of unforeseen circumstances. It is a method of providing funds for treating an illness that one could get unexpectedly. A person single-handedly may not be able to take on the expenses of a serious ailment, and for this reason s/he would need help. The help that one can get is in the form of health insurance, but this requires input on a regular basis. This input is referred to as premium.
Premiums may vary by the amount one has to put in on a regular basis, and the amount is dependent on the level of coverage. The higher a person’s chances are of developing a serious ailment, the higher the premium would be. Also, the amount of coverage that one wants influences the premium and the length of insurance as well.
Considering the chances of a person developing a serious illness, it must be asserted that insurance companies need to assess a person’s condition before ensuring them. If they find out that a person has already gotten symptoms that are close to the early stages of cancer or any serious disease, the insurance company may reject the individual’s application. If they do decide to insure a person in spite of their high chance of developing a serious illness that is costly to treat, they may insure the individual for a much smaller amount.
The chances a person then has of dealing with an ailment, should it develop, will be limited. This is due to the lack of funds. Appropriate medical attention that is required cannot be supplied, and for this reason a person may die. Hence, it is advised that a person should get a medical checkup and insurance as early as possible before any disease develops. A person’s chances of survival are greater in this way, and even incase of minor illnesses one can cover a great deal of the cost.
It is better to be safe than sorry as is said, and so, getting health insurance at the earliest possible time is the best ting to do.
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Process to dry fruit and vegetables
Food Dehydration is the oldest form of food preservation. In the beginning, people used a lot of salt to preserve foods, and they dried their food in the sun or on stove tops. Today we have the food dehydrator to help in the process of drying.
Food dehydration is safe because water is removed from the food. Because water is removed from the food, mold and bacteria cannot grow on it;thus it will not spoil. There is, however, a loss of vitamin A and C in dried foods due to heat and air. It usually takes vegetables 6-16 hours to dry, and fruit 12-48 hours. One can dry fruit and vegetables, and make jerky and fruit leather.
Choose Which Drying Method is Right For You
* Sun Drying This is rather difficult because you need three to four sunny days of at least 100 degrees in a row.
* Oven Drying Oven drying is an acceptable method of drying food, but it isn't very energy efficient, and foods aren't very flavorful in the end. If your oven cannot obtain temperatures below 200 degrees farenheit, use another method for food dehydration. You will need to prop open the oven door to maintain air circulation during the drying process.
* Electric Dehydrating This is the best method of dehydrating food. An electric dehydrator is energy efficient and can be operated at low temperatures needed to maintain nutritive values in the food. Your electric food dehydrator should have some sort of heat control and a fan to maintain air circulation during the drying process.
The Drying Process
When drying food, don't keep temperatures too low or too high. Temperatures too low may result in the groth of bacteria on the food. Temperatures too high will result in the food being cooked instead of dried. Food that is underdried will spoil, and food that is overdried will lose its flavor and nutritive value.
Food should be dehydrated between 120 and 140 degrees Fahrenheit. You can begin drying your food at higher temperatures, but turn the temperature down after the first hour or so. The last hour or so of drying time should be turned down on a lower setting. You must turn the food and rotate the trays while the food is drying.
You will know your food is dried when when you touch it, and it is leathery with no pockets of moisture. If you are testing fruit, you can tear a piece in half. If you see moisture beads along the tear, it is not dry enough. Meat should be tough, but shouldn't snap apart. Vegetables should also be tough but can also be crisp.
When storing your dried product, keep in mind that no moisture should be allowed to enter the container...ever.
Dried food absorbs moisture from the air, so the storage container must be airtight. Some acceptable storage containers are jars and plastic freezer bags. If storing fruit leather, wrap in plastic wrap and store in a another airtight container. Store your containers of dried food in a cool, dark, dry place. 60 degrees Fahrenheit or below is best.
Vegetable Drying Guide
All vegetables except onions and peppers,and mushrooms should be washed, sliced, and blanched. Dry vegetables in single layers on trays. Depending of drying conditions, drying times make take longer. Dry vegetables at 130-degrees Fahrenheit.
* Beans, green:Stem and break beans into 1-inch pieces.Blanch. Dry 6-12 hours until brittle.
* Beets: Cook and peel beets. Cut into 1/4-inch pieces. Dry 3-10 hours until leathery.
* Broccoli: Cut and dry 4-10 hours.
* Carrots: Peel, slice or shred. Dry 6-12 hours until almost brittle.
* Cauliflower: Cut and dry 6-14 hours.
* Corn:Cut corn off cob after blanching and dry 6-12 hours until brittle.
* Mushrooms: Brush off, don't wash. Dry at 90 degrees for 3 hours, and then 125 degrees for the remaining drying time. Dry 4-10 hours until brittle.
* Onions: Slice 1/4-inch thick. Dry 6-12 hours until crisp.
* Peas: Dry 5-14 hours until brittle.
* Peppers, sweet: Remove seeds and chop. Dry 5-12 hours until leathery.
* Potatoes: Slice 1/8-inch thick. Dry 6-12 hours until crisp.
* Tomatoes: Dip in boiling water to loosen skins, peel,slice or quarter. Dry 6-12 hours until crisp.
* Zucchini: Slice 1/8-inch thick and dry 5-10 hours until brittle.
Fruit Drying Guide
All fruit should be washed,pitted and sliced. Arrange in single layers on trays. Dry fruit at 135 degrees Fahrenheit. You may wish to pretreat your fruit with lemon juice or ascorbic acid or it won't darken while you are preparing it for drying. Just slice the fruit into the solution and soak for 5 minutes.
* Apples:Peel, core and slice into 3/8-inch rings, or cut into 1/4-inch slices. Pretreat and dry 6-12 hours until pliable.
* Apricots: Cut in half and turn inside out to dry. Pretreat and dry 8-20 hours until pliable.
* Bananas: Peel, cut into 1/4-inch slices and pretreat. Dry 8-16 hours until plialbe or almost crisp.
* Blueberries: Dry 10-20 hours until leathery.
* Cherries: Cut in half and dry 18-26 hours until leathery and slightly sticky.
* Peaches: Peel, halve or quarter. Pretreat and dry 6-20 hours until pliable.
* Pears: Peel, cut into 1/4-inch slices, and pretreat. Dry 6-20 hours until leathery.
* Pineapple: Core and slice 1/4-inch thick. Dry 6-16 hours until leathery and not sticky.
* Strawberries: Halve or cut into 1/4-inch thick slices. Dry 6-16 hours until pliable and almost crisp.
How to Use Dried Food in Recipes
You will need to soak or cook your dried foods before using them in recipes. Some foods require soaking and cooking.Vegetables are usually soaked btween 1/2 to 1-1/2 hours and then simmered. Some vegetables can be rehydrated while they are cooking. Fruits are soaked, and then cooked in the water they were soaked in. Don't add extra sugar until the fruit is cooked;otherwise, the fruit may be tough. Fruits are sometimes eaten in their dry state as snacks. You must remember that after a food is rehydrated, it may spoil quickly, so use it promptly. To cook dried food, use the following information and simmer until tender.
* Apples: Add 1 1/2 C. warm water to 1 C. apples and soak for 1/2 hour.
* Beans, green: Add 2 1/4 C. boiling water to 1 C. beans and soak for 1 1/2 hours.
* Beets: Add 2 3/4 C. boiling water to 1 C. beets and soak for 1 1/2 hours.
* Carrots: Add 2 1/4 C. boiling water to 1 C. carrots and soak for 1 hour.
* Corn: Add 2 1/4 C. boiling water to 1 C. Corn and soak for 1/2 hour.
* Onions: Add 2 C. boiling water to 1 C. onions and soak for 1 hour.
* Peaches: Add 2 C. warm water to 1 C. peaches and soak for 1 1/4 hour.
* Pears: Add 1 3/4 C. warm water to 1 C. pears and soak for 1 hour.
* Peas: Add 2 1/2 C. boiling water to 1 C. peas and soak for 1/2 hour.
* Potatoes: Add 1 1/2 C. boiling water to 1 C. potatoes and soak for 1/2 hour.
Food dehydration is safe because water is removed from the food. Because water is removed from the food, mold and bacteria cannot grow on it;thus it will not spoil. There is, however, a loss of vitamin A and C in dried foods due to heat and air. It usually takes vegetables 6-16 hours to dry, and fruit 12-48 hours. One can dry fruit and vegetables, and make jerky and fruit leather.
Choose Which Drying Method is Right For You
* Sun Drying This is rather difficult because you need three to four sunny days of at least 100 degrees in a row.
* Oven Drying Oven drying is an acceptable method of drying food, but it isn't very energy efficient, and foods aren't very flavorful in the end. If your oven cannot obtain temperatures below 200 degrees farenheit, use another method for food dehydration. You will need to prop open the oven door to maintain air circulation during the drying process.
* Electric Dehydrating This is the best method of dehydrating food. An electric dehydrator is energy efficient and can be operated at low temperatures needed to maintain nutritive values in the food. Your electric food dehydrator should have some sort of heat control and a fan to maintain air circulation during the drying process.
The Drying Process
When drying food, don't keep temperatures too low or too high. Temperatures too low may result in the groth of bacteria on the food. Temperatures too high will result in the food being cooked instead of dried. Food that is underdried will spoil, and food that is overdried will lose its flavor and nutritive value.
Food should be dehydrated between 120 and 140 degrees Fahrenheit. You can begin drying your food at higher temperatures, but turn the temperature down after the first hour or so. The last hour or so of drying time should be turned down on a lower setting. You must turn the food and rotate the trays while the food is drying.
You will know your food is dried when when you touch it, and it is leathery with no pockets of moisture. If you are testing fruit, you can tear a piece in half. If you see moisture beads along the tear, it is not dry enough. Meat should be tough, but shouldn't snap apart. Vegetables should also be tough but can also be crisp.
When storing your dried product, keep in mind that no moisture should be allowed to enter the container...ever.
Dried food absorbs moisture from the air, so the storage container must be airtight. Some acceptable storage containers are jars and plastic freezer bags. If storing fruit leather, wrap in plastic wrap and store in a another airtight container. Store your containers of dried food in a cool, dark, dry place. 60 degrees Fahrenheit or below is best.
Vegetable Drying Guide
All vegetables except onions and peppers,and mushrooms should be washed, sliced, and blanched. Dry vegetables in single layers on trays. Depending of drying conditions, drying times make take longer. Dry vegetables at 130-degrees Fahrenheit.
* Beans, green:Stem and break beans into 1-inch pieces.Blanch. Dry 6-12 hours until brittle.
* Beets: Cook and peel beets. Cut into 1/4-inch pieces. Dry 3-10 hours until leathery.
* Broccoli: Cut and dry 4-10 hours.
* Carrots: Peel, slice or shred. Dry 6-12 hours until almost brittle.
* Cauliflower: Cut and dry 6-14 hours.
* Corn:Cut corn off cob after blanching and dry 6-12 hours until brittle.
* Mushrooms: Brush off, don't wash. Dry at 90 degrees for 3 hours, and then 125 degrees for the remaining drying time. Dry 4-10 hours until brittle.
* Onions: Slice 1/4-inch thick. Dry 6-12 hours until crisp.
* Peas: Dry 5-14 hours until brittle.
* Peppers, sweet: Remove seeds and chop. Dry 5-12 hours until leathery.
* Potatoes: Slice 1/8-inch thick. Dry 6-12 hours until crisp.
* Tomatoes: Dip in boiling water to loosen skins, peel,slice or quarter. Dry 6-12 hours until crisp.
* Zucchini: Slice 1/8-inch thick and dry 5-10 hours until brittle.
Fruit Drying Guide
All fruit should be washed,pitted and sliced. Arrange in single layers on trays. Dry fruit at 135 degrees Fahrenheit. You may wish to pretreat your fruit with lemon juice or ascorbic acid or it won't darken while you are preparing it for drying. Just slice the fruit into the solution and soak for 5 minutes.
* Apples:Peel, core and slice into 3/8-inch rings, or cut into 1/4-inch slices. Pretreat and dry 6-12 hours until pliable.
* Apricots: Cut in half and turn inside out to dry. Pretreat and dry 8-20 hours until pliable.
* Bananas: Peel, cut into 1/4-inch slices and pretreat. Dry 8-16 hours until plialbe or almost crisp.
* Blueberries: Dry 10-20 hours until leathery.
* Cherries: Cut in half and dry 18-26 hours until leathery and slightly sticky.
* Peaches: Peel, halve or quarter. Pretreat and dry 6-20 hours until pliable.
* Pears: Peel, cut into 1/4-inch slices, and pretreat. Dry 6-20 hours until leathery.
* Pineapple: Core and slice 1/4-inch thick. Dry 6-16 hours until leathery and not sticky.
* Strawberries: Halve or cut into 1/4-inch thick slices. Dry 6-16 hours until pliable and almost crisp.
How to Use Dried Food in Recipes
You will need to soak or cook your dried foods before using them in recipes. Some foods require soaking and cooking.Vegetables are usually soaked btween 1/2 to 1-1/2 hours and then simmered. Some vegetables can be rehydrated while they are cooking. Fruits are soaked, and then cooked in the water they were soaked in. Don't add extra sugar until the fruit is cooked;otherwise, the fruit may be tough. Fruits are sometimes eaten in their dry state as snacks. You must remember that after a food is rehydrated, it may spoil quickly, so use it promptly. To cook dried food, use the following information and simmer until tender.
* Apples: Add 1 1/2 C. warm water to 1 C. apples and soak for 1/2 hour.
* Beans, green: Add 2 1/4 C. boiling water to 1 C. beans and soak for 1 1/2 hours.
* Beets: Add 2 3/4 C. boiling water to 1 C. beets and soak for 1 1/2 hours.
* Carrots: Add 2 1/4 C. boiling water to 1 C. carrots and soak for 1 hour.
* Corn: Add 2 1/4 C. boiling water to 1 C. Corn and soak for 1/2 hour.
* Onions: Add 2 C. boiling water to 1 C. onions and soak for 1 hour.
* Peaches: Add 2 C. warm water to 1 C. peaches and soak for 1 1/4 hour.
* Pears: Add 1 3/4 C. warm water to 1 C. pears and soak for 1 hour.
* Peas: Add 2 1/2 C. boiling water to 1 C. peas and soak for 1/2 hour.
* Potatoes: Add 1 1/2 C. boiling water to 1 C. potatoes and soak for 1/2 hour.
Monday, January 19, 2009
Artifacts, Artefacts, Archeology
In archaeology, an artifact or artefact is any object made or modified by a human culture, and often one later recovered by some archaeological endeavor. Examples include stone tools such as projectile points, pottery vessels, metal objects such as buttons or guns, and items of personal adornment such as jewellery and clothing. Other examples include bone that show signs of human modification, fire cracked rocks from a hearth or plant material used for food.
The study of these objects is an important part of the field of archaeology, although the degree to which they represent the social groupings that created them is a subject over which archaeological theoreticians argue. Focusing on the artifact alone can produce very intensive and enlightening work on the object itself but can ignore surrounding factors which may shed further light on the manufacturing society. Traditional museums are often criticised for being too artifact-led, that is by displaying items without any contextual information about their purpose or the people who made them.
Artifacts can come from any archaeological context or source such as:
* Buried along with a body (grave goods).
* From any feature such as a midden or other domestic setting
* Hoards
* Votive offerings
Artifacts are distinguished from the main body of the archaeological record such as stratigraphic features, which are nonportable remains of human activity, such as hearths, roads, or deposits and remains, and from biofacts or ecofacts, which are objects of archaeological interest made by other organisms, such as seeds or animal bone.
Natural objects which have been moved but not changed by humans are called manuports. Examples would include seashells moved inland or rounded pebbles placed away from the water action that would have fashioned them.
These distinctions are often blurred; for instance, a bone removed from an animal carcass is a biofact, but a bone carved into a useful implement is an artifact. Similarly there can be debate over early stone objects which may be crude artifacts or which may be naturally occurring phenomena that only appear to have been used by humans.Artifacts are often called "finds" when handled during archaeological excavation. Artifacts are related to the archaeological record by their position defined by the Archaeological context they are discovered in. This is important for Seriation and relative dating analysis and is closely related to work post excavation with the use of a Harris matrix created during excavation. An analysis of finds is often made during excavation for the purpose of spot dating, which is a process of assessing dates of contexts being excavated. It is used as a form of confirmation concerning phasing and highlighting any potential for further discovery on a given site as it progresses. Spot dating tends to rely on pottery typology. This pottery dating analysis was pioneered by 19th century archaeologists such as Georg Loeschcke. Apart from dating and supporting the process of excavation, artifacts lend themselves to a host of post excavation disciplines.
The study of these objects is an important part of the field of archaeology, although the degree to which they represent the social groupings that created them is a subject over which archaeological theoreticians argue. Focusing on the artifact alone can produce very intensive and enlightening work on the object itself but can ignore surrounding factors which may shed further light on the manufacturing society. Traditional museums are often criticised for being too artifact-led, that is by displaying items without any contextual information about their purpose or the people who made them.
Artifacts can come from any archaeological context or source such as:
* Buried along with a body (grave goods).
* From any feature such as a midden or other domestic setting
* Hoards
* Votive offerings
Artifacts are distinguished from the main body of the archaeological record such as stratigraphic features, which are nonportable remains of human activity, such as hearths, roads, or deposits and remains, and from biofacts or ecofacts, which are objects of archaeological interest made by other organisms, such as seeds or animal bone.
Natural objects which have been moved but not changed by humans are called manuports. Examples would include seashells moved inland or rounded pebbles placed away from the water action that would have fashioned them.
These distinctions are often blurred; for instance, a bone removed from an animal carcass is a biofact, but a bone carved into a useful implement is an artifact. Similarly there can be debate over early stone objects which may be crude artifacts or which may be naturally occurring phenomena that only appear to have been used by humans.Artifacts are often called "finds" when handled during archaeological excavation. Artifacts are related to the archaeological record by their position defined by the Archaeological context they are discovered in. This is important for Seriation and relative dating analysis and is closely related to work post excavation with the use of a Harris matrix created during excavation. An analysis of finds is often made during excavation for the purpose of spot dating, which is a process of assessing dates of contexts being excavated. It is used as a form of confirmation concerning phasing and highlighting any potential for further discovery on a given site as it progresses. Spot dating tends to rely on pottery typology. This pottery dating analysis was pioneered by 19th century archaeologists such as Georg Loeschcke. Apart from dating and supporting the process of excavation, artifacts lend themselves to a host of post excavation disciplines.
Unclaimed money
What are unclaimed funds?
Unclaimed funds are items such as money, stocks, or jewelry that are being held by state or federal agencies until the owners claim them. Businesses are required by law to turn unclaimed funds over to the government after a certain period of time. The government is then supposed to try to return these funds to the rightful owner. But, many times they are unable to do this because the owner has moved or died. The following are just some of the possible sources of unclaimed money: Saving & Checking Accounts, Inheritances, Payroll Checks, Tax Returns, Investment Accounts, Insurance Policies, Mortgage Insurance Refunds, Security Deposits, Stock Dividends, Refunds, and so much more!
If I was really owed money, wouldn't they have located me and given it to me?
Not necessarily! Many companies, states, and federal agencies don't make much of an effort to locate you. They don't have much incentive to do so since they can keep that money and wait for you to come claim it while they earn interest off of that money.
Who is likely to have unclaimed funds?
Just about anyone! It is estimated that 7 out of 10 adult Americans are entitled to a share of the estimated 300 Billion Dollars nationwide that make up "Unclaimed Funds".
How do I claim the money I am owed?
Once you signup for some site you will be given the information you need to directly contact the source that owes you the money. You will then need to get a claim form from them and file it along with some paperwork proving you are really the person who is owed the money. It takes several months to receive the money.
It is estimated that 9 in 10 Americans are owed cash that sits unclaimed year after year. So, it's quite likely that some of this money belongs to you or someone you know. Would you like to claim some found money?
Who is holding this unclaimed money?
The found money we locate is being held by one or more of many different institutions. Research has uncovered millions of unclaimed and lost money owed to individuals in:
* forgotten savings and checking accounts
* uncashed checks
* securities
* dividends
* insurance refunds or claims
* oil royalties
* wages
* utility refunds/deposits
* bail bonds
* child support payments
* the list goes on and on...
Also, hundreds of thousands of people are owed money as an heir to an inheritance that they didn't even know about!
Why is the money "unclaimed"?
For one reason or another the financial institution holding the funds has been unable to locate the rightful owners to return the money. So, literally billions of dollars sit in unclaimed accounts across the nation year after year. This money is lost and never gets found unless the owners of the unclaimed funds use a property locator service like Cash Unclaimed Money Search.
For instance, have you ever:
* moved without checking to be sure every company and person you do business with knew your new address?
* moved without getting your utility deposit refund back?
* opened a savings account as a child or for your own child and then forgot about it?
* forgot to cash a health insurance check?
* forgot to cash interest or dividend checks on stocks or bonds?
* Quit or been fired from a job and never gone back to get your last paycheck?
* Didn't notify companies who owe you money that you have moved?
This list covers only a small fraction of the possible reasons why you may be owed money!
There are compiled a database of millions of people owed money in all 50 states. If your name is in the lost cash database, there is a good chance you have lost money owed to you. The only way to be 100% certain whether the found money is yours is to submit a claim!
Unclaimed funds are items such as money, stocks, or jewelry that are being held by state or federal agencies until the owners claim them. Businesses are required by law to turn unclaimed funds over to the government after a certain period of time. The government is then supposed to try to return these funds to the rightful owner. But, many times they are unable to do this because the owner has moved or died. The following are just some of the possible sources of unclaimed money: Saving & Checking Accounts, Inheritances, Payroll Checks, Tax Returns, Investment Accounts, Insurance Policies, Mortgage Insurance Refunds, Security Deposits, Stock Dividends, Refunds, and so much more!
If I was really owed money, wouldn't they have located me and given it to me?
Not necessarily! Many companies, states, and federal agencies don't make much of an effort to locate you. They don't have much incentive to do so since they can keep that money and wait for you to come claim it while they earn interest off of that money.
Who is likely to have unclaimed funds?
Just about anyone! It is estimated that 7 out of 10 adult Americans are entitled to a share of the estimated 300 Billion Dollars nationwide that make up "Unclaimed Funds".
How do I claim the money I am owed?
Once you signup for some site you will be given the information you need to directly contact the source that owes you the money. You will then need to get a claim form from them and file it along with some paperwork proving you are really the person who is owed the money. It takes several months to receive the money.
It is estimated that 9 in 10 Americans are owed cash that sits unclaimed year after year. So, it's quite likely that some of this money belongs to you or someone you know. Would you like to claim some found money?
Who is holding this unclaimed money?
The found money we locate is being held by one or more of many different institutions. Research has uncovered millions of unclaimed and lost money owed to individuals in:
* forgotten savings and checking accounts
* uncashed checks
* securities
* dividends
* insurance refunds or claims
* oil royalties
* wages
* utility refunds/deposits
* bail bonds
* child support payments
* the list goes on and on...
Also, hundreds of thousands of people are owed money as an heir to an inheritance that they didn't even know about!
Why is the money "unclaimed"?
For one reason or another the financial institution holding the funds has been unable to locate the rightful owners to return the money. So, literally billions of dollars sit in unclaimed accounts across the nation year after year. This money is lost and never gets found unless the owners of the unclaimed funds use a property locator service like Cash Unclaimed Money Search.
For instance, have you ever:
* moved without checking to be sure every company and person you do business with knew your new address?
* moved without getting your utility deposit refund back?
* opened a savings account as a child or for your own child and then forgot about it?
* forgot to cash a health insurance check?
* forgot to cash interest or dividend checks on stocks or bonds?
* Quit or been fired from a job and never gone back to get your last paycheck?
* Didn't notify companies who owe you money that you have moved?
This list covers only a small fraction of the possible reasons why you may be owed money!
There are compiled a database of millions of people owed money in all 50 states. If your name is in the lost cash database, there is a good chance you have lost money owed to you. The only way to be 100% certain whether the found money is yours is to submit a claim!
Foreign Exchange
The foreign exchange (currency or FX) market is where currency trading takes place. FX transactions typically involve one party purchasing a quantity of one currency in exchange for paying a quantity of another. The Foreign Exchange Market that we see today started evolving during the 1970s when worldover countries gradually switched to floating exchange rate from their erstwhile exchange rate regime, which remained fixed as per the Bretton Woods system till 1971.
Today FX market is one of the largest and most liquid financial markets in the world, and includes trading between large banks, central banks, currency speculators, corporations, governments, and other institutions. The average daily volume in the global forex and related markets is continuously growing.
Traditional daily turnover was reported to be over US$ 3.2 trillion in April 2007 by the Bank for International Settlements. Since then, the market has continued to grow. According to Euromoney's annual FX Poll, volumes grew a further 41% between 2007 and 2008.
The purpose of FX market is to facilitate trade and investment. The need for a foreign exchange market arises because of the presence of multifarious international currencies such as US Dollar, Pound Sterling, etc, and the need for trading in such currencies.
We shall show you how foreign exchange traders make money online. It's really an amazing thing. Never before have individuals been able to enter this market, right from their own home. There is a lot of money to make if you know what you're doing. Figuring out which currencies are expected to go up and buying before hand is how you make profits. It works very similar to stocks, though it is quite different in predicting winners. There are a lot of people that end up losing money in this business. I'm going to share a little of what you need to know to get started in this business.
The first step you need to do is finding a broker. Not just any broker, a good broker. The internet is one of those places where it takes very little to make a website. It's hard to tell if you're getting a reputable business or some persons project out of a basement. You obviously want someone that can perform and a place that keeps your money safe. I always do research on forex forums. There are discussion forums where traders talk about brokers all the time. You'll find out, just by reading, which brokers are good and bad.
Another important aspect is having software to help you trade. Since this is a global market, that means the doors are open 24hrs a day. Obviously, you're going to have to sleep at some point and you need something to watch over the market. This is what software can do for you.
Are you one of those who have heard about Forex trading but not sure what it really is? Or you would like to find forex trading tips on how it works and if you can make money out of it, but not sure whom to ask? Well, I can tell you are not alone in this situation. Many people think that they are familiar with Forex trading, but in reality, most of them think that forex trading has something to do with stocks or bonds.
Forex trading is different from stocks or bonds. It is a type of trading that involves trading of currency pairs. The currencies that are usually chosen for trading are considered above the rest because they are stable and have a greater value than other foreign currencies.
For all the newcomers to the forex market, the first piece of tips is to protect themselves from frauds. If you're new in forex trading, it doesn't hurt to take some advice from the ones who are already engaged in forex trading. In fact, you can make use of their tips for your own good, and even to your advantage.
People across the globe participate in forex trading and that's why it is not surprising to see the kind of frauds that are able to infiltrate the financial market. To shield the legitimate traders from these frauds, they must be made aware of these growing facts, so that they can take suitable actions to protect their trading career.
The opportunities that forex trading provides for different individuals, firms, and organizations is growing rapidly every year. And accompanying this growth is the widespread growth of different scams related with forex trading. But you should not worry because there are a lot of legitimate companies or firms that can help you in forex trading. The best thing to do is to find these legitimate companies to stay away from fraudulent ones. However, most new traders fall prey to these scammers because of their savory offers. Don't get fooled by the companies that advertise high profits for minimal risks. The fact is that, if you want to earn high profits, then you are likely subjected to high risks as well. Higher rate of profit means higher risk. So, always stay on the safer side. If you're looking for a forex trading broker, and since each broker is part of a certain company, make sure that you select a government registered company. In signing any contract with them, double check if they are registered or certified brokers. This is one basic precaution that will prevent any misfortune that you might encounter in the future.
The job of reducing the risk is entirely yours, not that of the broker; so if the company offers or promises little risks, guaranteed profits, and the like, that is a sure sign that they are there to make a fool out of you. Even if you are not a professional trader, a little use of the common sense can help in long run. Before actually participating in any forex trade, make sure you have done your homework. Do the research and jot down all the necessary details about the trading transaction that you wish to perform. Ever heard of inter-bank market? Stay away from companies which lure you into trading in the inter-bank market because the currency transactions are negotiated in a wobbly network of large companies and financial institutions.
Also, make sure to check the background or history of the trading company. If a certain company does not disclose information about their background, that should serve as a red flag. It means that you should continue doing transactions with them. Nor is it advisable to transfer/send cash through the mail or the internet. Practice caution in everything you do, and you'll be more than sure that you are always safe.
Fraudulent companies often solicit services and advertise soaring pressure tactics to attract you in participating or joining their services. An offshore company which guarantees no risk and return of profit is a big NO. Always be skeptical and don’t give in to any instant offer that comes your way. What forex trading tips would you like to know about? Check out the professional advice below
- Get the latest information on online forex trading brokers system
- Help on learning forex trading
- Recommended forex trading courses
- What you should know about forex trading software
- Advice on forex mobile trading software
- More about forex trading signal software
Take a carefully evaluated decision about your trading company or transaction. These pieces of advice are merely to guide you. Ultimately, it will entirely depend on you to identify and reject offers from fraud companies. One wrong decision could seriously jeopardize you trading career, so act wisely.
The success of Forex trading, like any other trading, lies in your ability to buy for less and sell for more. You can trade in Forex market successfully if you keep patience and a little diligence. You can also safeguard yourself from Forex trading frauds if you stay alert and skeptical.
Today FX market is one of the largest and most liquid financial markets in the world, and includes trading between large banks, central banks, currency speculators, corporations, governments, and other institutions. The average daily volume in the global forex and related markets is continuously growing.
Traditional daily turnover was reported to be over US$ 3.2 trillion in April 2007 by the Bank for International Settlements. Since then, the market has continued to grow. According to Euromoney's annual FX Poll, volumes grew a further 41% between 2007 and 2008.
The purpose of FX market is to facilitate trade and investment. The need for a foreign exchange market arises because of the presence of multifarious international currencies such as US Dollar, Pound Sterling, etc, and the need for trading in such currencies.
We shall show you how foreign exchange traders make money online. It's really an amazing thing. Never before have individuals been able to enter this market, right from their own home. There is a lot of money to make if you know what you're doing. Figuring out which currencies are expected to go up and buying before hand is how you make profits. It works very similar to stocks, though it is quite different in predicting winners. There are a lot of people that end up losing money in this business. I'm going to share a little of what you need to know to get started in this business.
The first step you need to do is finding a broker. Not just any broker, a good broker. The internet is one of those places where it takes very little to make a website. It's hard to tell if you're getting a reputable business or some persons project out of a basement. You obviously want someone that can perform and a place that keeps your money safe. I always do research on forex forums. There are discussion forums where traders talk about brokers all the time. You'll find out, just by reading, which brokers are good and bad.
Another important aspect is having software to help you trade. Since this is a global market, that means the doors are open 24hrs a day. Obviously, you're going to have to sleep at some point and you need something to watch over the market. This is what software can do for you.
Are you one of those who have heard about Forex trading but not sure what it really is? Or you would like to find forex trading tips on how it works and if you can make money out of it, but not sure whom to ask? Well, I can tell you are not alone in this situation. Many people think that they are familiar with Forex trading, but in reality, most of them think that forex trading has something to do with stocks or bonds.
Forex trading is different from stocks or bonds. It is a type of trading that involves trading of currency pairs. The currencies that are usually chosen for trading are considered above the rest because they are stable and have a greater value than other foreign currencies.
For all the newcomers to the forex market, the first piece of tips is to protect themselves from frauds. If you're new in forex trading, it doesn't hurt to take some advice from the ones who are already engaged in forex trading. In fact, you can make use of their tips for your own good, and even to your advantage.
People across the globe participate in forex trading and that's why it is not surprising to see the kind of frauds that are able to infiltrate the financial market. To shield the legitimate traders from these frauds, they must be made aware of these growing facts, so that they can take suitable actions to protect their trading career.
The opportunities that forex trading provides for different individuals, firms, and organizations is growing rapidly every year. And accompanying this growth is the widespread growth of different scams related with forex trading. But you should not worry because there are a lot of legitimate companies or firms that can help you in forex trading. The best thing to do is to find these legitimate companies to stay away from fraudulent ones. However, most new traders fall prey to these scammers because of their savory offers. Don't get fooled by the companies that advertise high profits for minimal risks. The fact is that, if you want to earn high profits, then you are likely subjected to high risks as well. Higher rate of profit means higher risk. So, always stay on the safer side. If you're looking for a forex trading broker, and since each broker is part of a certain company, make sure that you select a government registered company. In signing any contract with them, double check if they are registered or certified brokers. This is one basic precaution that will prevent any misfortune that you might encounter in the future.
The job of reducing the risk is entirely yours, not that of the broker; so if the company offers or promises little risks, guaranteed profits, and the like, that is a sure sign that they are there to make a fool out of you. Even if you are not a professional trader, a little use of the common sense can help in long run. Before actually participating in any forex trade, make sure you have done your homework. Do the research and jot down all the necessary details about the trading transaction that you wish to perform. Ever heard of inter-bank market? Stay away from companies which lure you into trading in the inter-bank market because the currency transactions are negotiated in a wobbly network of large companies and financial institutions.
Also, make sure to check the background or history of the trading company. If a certain company does not disclose information about their background, that should serve as a red flag. It means that you should continue doing transactions with them. Nor is it advisable to transfer/send cash through the mail or the internet. Practice caution in everything you do, and you'll be more than sure that you are always safe.
Fraudulent companies often solicit services and advertise soaring pressure tactics to attract you in participating or joining their services. An offshore company which guarantees no risk and return of profit is a big NO. Always be skeptical and don’t give in to any instant offer that comes your way. What forex trading tips would you like to know about? Check out the professional advice below
- Get the latest information on online forex trading brokers system
- Help on learning forex trading
- Recommended forex trading courses
- What you should know about forex trading software
- Advice on forex mobile trading software
- More about forex trading signal software
Take a carefully evaluated decision about your trading company or transaction. These pieces of advice are merely to guide you. Ultimately, it will entirely depend on you to identify and reject offers from fraud companies. One wrong decision could seriously jeopardize you trading career, so act wisely.
The success of Forex trading, like any other trading, lies in your ability to buy for less and sell for more. You can trade in Forex market successfully if you keep patience and a little diligence. You can also safeguard yourself from Forex trading frauds if you stay alert and skeptical.
Sunday, January 18, 2009
Make Money online_tips
Making money online used to pretty much require you to have your own Web site, products to sell and some marketing savvy. But a new generation of dot-coms have arisen that will pay you for what you know and who you know without you having to be a web designer or a marketing genius. But it's hard to tell hype from the real deal. I did a search on "make money online" and "making money online", and much of the information out there is just promoting various infoproducts, mostly about Internet marketing. I see why people sometimes ask, "Is anyone making money online besides Internet marketing experts?"
Connect suppliers with buyers.
Referral fees are a common practice in business, but they haven't been used much in online networking sites because there was no way to track them. Sites like Salesconx, InnerSell and uRefer now provide that. Vendors set the referral fees they're willing to pay (and for what), and when the transaction happens, you get paid. uRefer also allows merchants to set up referral programs for introductions and meetings, as well as transactions.
Write.
A growing number of sites will pay for your articles or blog posts. Associated Content and Helium will "pay for performance" based on page views for just about anything you want to write about. Articles on specific topics they're looking for can earn direct payments up to about $200. The rates are probably low for established writers, but if you're trying to break into the field and have time on your hands, they're a great way to start. Also, a lot of companies are looking for part-time bloggers. They may pay per post or on a steady contract. Our Weblogs Guide posts blogging jobs weekly in the forum.
Start your own blog.
You don't have to have your own Web site, or install blogging software, or even figure out how to set up the advertising. At Blogger you can set up a blog for free in less than five minutes without knowing a thing about web design, and Blogger even automates setting up Google AdSense so you can make money off your blog by displaying ads and getting paid when people click on the ads. To make even more money from it, set up an affiliate program (see below) for books, music, etc., and insert your affiliate links whenever you refer to those items. You'll have to get a lot of traffic to become a six-figure blogger, but pick an interesting topic, write well, tell all your friends, and you're off to a good start.
Create topical resource hubs.
Are you an expert on a particular niche topic? Can you put together an overview of the topic and assemble some of the best resources on the topic from around the web? Then you can create topical hubs and get paid through sites like Squidoo, HugPages and Google Knol. Payments are based on a combination of ad revenue and affiliate fees. You'll get higher rates doing it on your own, but these sites have a built-in supply of traffic and tools to make content creation easier.
Advertise other people's products.
If you already have a Web site or a blog, look for vendors that offer related but non-competing products and see if they have an affiliate program. Stick to familiar products and brands - they're easier to sell. To promote those products:
* Place simple text or graphical ads in appropriate places on your site
* Include links to purchase products you review or recommend in a blog, discussion forum or mailing list you control
* Create a dedicated sales page or Web site to promote a particular product
They all work - it just depends on how much time you have to spend on it and your level of expertise with Web design and marketing.Making money online used to pretty much require you to have your own Web site, products to sell and some marketing savvy. But a new generation of dot-coms have arisen that will pay you for what you know and who you know without you having to be a web designer or a marketing genius.
But it's hard to tell hype from the real deal. I did a search on "make money online" and "making money online", and much of the information out there is just promoting various infoproducts, mostly about Internet marketing.Microstock photography.
You don't have to be a professional photographer to sell your photos for money. People are constantly in need of stock photography for websites, presentations, brochures and so on, and are willing to pay for the right image. People generally search for images on stock photography sites by keywords, not by photographer, so you have the same chance as anyone else of having your image picked. Just be careful that you don't have images of trademarked brands, copyrighted art or people's faces that are readily identifiable (unless you have a model release), but just about anything else is fair game, and I promise - you'd be amazed what people need pictures of, so don't make any assumptions. If it's a decent photo, upload it. Some sites to get you started include Fotolia, ShutterStock, Dreamstime and iStockphoto. The great thing about this is that it's truly "set it and forget it".
The above list is by no means comprehensive, but it highlights some of the new and interesting ways to make money online without investing any money, without having a product of your own, and without having expert sales and marketing skills. Most of all, unlike taking surveys or getting paid to read e-mail, the potential return on your time investment is substantial.
Connect suppliers with buyers.
Referral fees are a common practice in business, but they haven't been used much in online networking sites because there was no way to track them. Sites like Salesconx, InnerSell and uRefer now provide that. Vendors set the referral fees they're willing to pay (and for what), and when the transaction happens, you get paid. uRefer also allows merchants to set up referral programs for introductions and meetings, as well as transactions.
Write.
A growing number of sites will pay for your articles or blog posts. Associated Content and Helium will "pay for performance" based on page views for just about anything you want to write about. Articles on specific topics they're looking for can earn direct payments up to about $200. The rates are probably low for established writers, but if you're trying to break into the field and have time on your hands, they're a great way to start. Also, a lot of companies are looking for part-time bloggers. They may pay per post or on a steady contract. Our Weblogs Guide posts blogging jobs weekly in the forum.
Start your own blog.
You don't have to have your own Web site, or install blogging software, or even figure out how to set up the advertising. At Blogger you can set up a blog for free in less than five minutes without knowing a thing about web design, and Blogger even automates setting up Google AdSense so you can make money off your blog by displaying ads and getting paid when people click on the ads. To make even more money from it, set up an affiliate program (see below) for books, music, etc., and insert your affiliate links whenever you refer to those items. You'll have to get a lot of traffic to become a six-figure blogger, but pick an interesting topic, write well, tell all your friends, and you're off to a good start.
Create topical resource hubs.
Are you an expert on a particular niche topic? Can you put together an overview of the topic and assemble some of the best resources on the topic from around the web? Then you can create topical hubs and get paid through sites like Squidoo, HugPages and Google Knol. Payments are based on a combination of ad revenue and affiliate fees. You'll get higher rates doing it on your own, but these sites have a built-in supply of traffic and tools to make content creation easier.
Advertise other people's products.
If you already have a Web site or a blog, look for vendors that offer related but non-competing products and see if they have an affiliate program. Stick to familiar products and brands - they're easier to sell. To promote those products:
* Place simple text or graphical ads in appropriate places on your site
* Include links to purchase products you review or recommend in a blog, discussion forum or mailing list you control
* Create a dedicated sales page or Web site to promote a particular product
They all work - it just depends on how much time you have to spend on it and your level of expertise with Web design and marketing.Making money online used to pretty much require you to have your own Web site, products to sell and some marketing savvy. But a new generation of dot-coms have arisen that will pay you for what you know and who you know without you having to be a web designer or a marketing genius.
But it's hard to tell hype from the real deal. I did a search on "make money online" and "making money online", and much of the information out there is just promoting various infoproducts, mostly about Internet marketing.Microstock photography.
You don't have to be a professional photographer to sell your photos for money. People are constantly in need of stock photography for websites, presentations, brochures and so on, and are willing to pay for the right image. People generally search for images on stock photography sites by keywords, not by photographer, so you have the same chance as anyone else of having your image picked. Just be careful that you don't have images of trademarked brands, copyrighted art or people's faces that are readily identifiable (unless you have a model release), but just about anything else is fair game, and I promise - you'd be amazed what people need pictures of, so don't make any assumptions. If it's a decent photo, upload it. Some sites to get you started include Fotolia, ShutterStock, Dreamstime and iStockphoto. The great thing about this is that it's truly "set it and forget it".
The above list is by no means comprehensive, but it highlights some of the new and interesting ways to make money online without investing any money, without having a product of your own, and without having expert sales and marketing skills. Most of all, unlike taking surveys or getting paid to read e-mail, the potential return on your time investment is substantial.
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