Meteors and Comets - Plausible Celestial Phenomena for the Star of Bethlehem
12.06.09 | Comments Off

Which consequence is most likely as an account of the Star of Bethlehem counts on which year is granted as the year Jesus was born. Matthew wrote that Jesus was born during the time of Herod. According to Josephus, Herod passed away shortly after a lunar eclipse. This is ordinarily known as the eclipse of March 13, 4 BC. Coins released by Herod’s replacements record that they dated their reigns as beginning in 4 BC.

Corresponding to Matthew’s story, Jesus must have been born sometime between the beginning appearance of the Star of Bethlehem and the time the magi came in Herod’s court. As Herod prescribed the execution of boys age 2 and subordinate, the star must have caused its initial appearance within the previous two years. There was, however, no Roman census in 64 BC.

The Star of Bethlehem, also called the Christmas Star, is a star in Christian custom that purportedly unveiled the birth of Jesus to the magi (or “wise men”) and later led them to Bethlehem. According to the Gospel of Matthew, the magi were gentlemen “from the east” who were inspired by the appearance of the star to journey to Jerusalem in search of a king of the Jews. There they touched King Herod of Judea, who educated them that the child they sought was in Bethlehem, a nearby village. While the magi traveled to Bethlehem, the star came along again. Following the star, it arrived this time above the place where Jesus was born. The magi acquired Jesus with his mother, consecrated him homage, revered him and gave gifts. They then returned to their “own country”.

The episode is especially appreciated at planetarium shows during the Christmas holiday season, although the Biblical account suggests that the visit of the magi took place at least several months after Jesus was born.



Observing the Marine Life When Boating
11.29.09 | Comments Off

"Whether you boat on fresh water or on the ocean, there is a lot of marine life to observe and appreciate. We boat in the Pacific Northwest off the west coast around the islands and straits of the Pacific Ocean. The sea life here is exceptional. Following are some of our wonderful experiences."

One of the most powerful sights is that of large pods of Orca whales, or Killer whales as they are often referred to, as they migrate off the coast. Sometimes there can be several in these pods including mother whales and their babies. Orca whales are quite beautiful to see. Their black and white bodies glisten in the sunlight each time they appear near the water surface or do a breach jump. Usually the babies follow their mothers. It is quite possible to watch them for hours without getting tired.

Boaters must be careful and remain a respectable distance from the whales, as most whales are endangered. You do not want to interfere with their normal migration routes and movements. It is possible to see Orca whales up close in captivity, and they are splendid animals. But when you can actually see them in their normal environment in the ocean, it is magnificent. How fortunate we are to be able to go boating for a few days and have them entertain us along the way.

Another sea mammal that I always enjoy watching is the dolphin or the porpoise. They too can be found off the west coast. These mammals are so sleek and they can swim at very fast speeds. As they jump and slice through the surface of the water they are quite entertaining. Most people have seen dolphins in action at the various aquariums around the world. Well they do the same in the wild. They make me laugh. I think that they actually enjoy an audience!

Living in the Pacific North West, we are very aware of the salmon industry. When boating, there are many small fishing boats out with their nets during the fisheries openings for the various kinds of salmon. It is fun to watch them jump. Seals are also very good fishermen. You can be sure that when the salmon are plentiful around the mouths of the large rivers, you will see a lot of seals. They love to fish for salmon, much to the chagrin of the commercial fishermen. They can be seen swimming through the waters, or sunning themselves on large logs or rocky outcroppings along the shoreline. The bark of a seal is loud and comical to hear and they are another creature that can entertain west coast boaters.

When the salmon are running, you will find another fisherman, one with wings. There are many Bald Eagles on the west coast and they also enjoy a good salmon dinner. These are very majestic birds. Their soaring overhead is something to be marveled at. The black and white features really stand out against the sky as they glide and then swoop down for a fish.

Sea otters can sometimes be seen around large beds of kelp. In particular I have seen many when boating in our Bayliner, off the coastline from British Columbia to California. These sea creatures are very timid, so you must give them space. They love to float on their backs and eat sea urchins or play in the water, rolling over and over. Often you can see them playing in pairs. Sea otters are my husband’s favorite sea mammals. He loves to watch them play. They really are very cute. If you have watched them, I’m sure you will agree.

As well as these mammals, the coast offers wonderful creatures that attached themselves to the rocks and driftwood or coral. Sea anemones are absolutely beautiful, as are the many colored starfish. Anenomes are found in white, pale green and soft pinks with large fluffy plumes. Starfish are found in ranges of bright orange to deep purple. They can be very tiny and fragile or very large. Some measure several inches across. Sea cucumbers, barnacles, sand dollars, oysters, mussels and crabs are all found along the coastline. I love to walk on docks at marinas when the tide is out and see some of these shell fish in tiny pools of water. You can often get up quite close to see them better.

All in all we are very fortunate in this area to be able to see so many creatures. Many of which are not seen by most people around the world. They enhance our environment and our boating experiences. It is important that we remember to respect all of these creatures in their natural environments, so as not to interfere with nature’s course.

About the Author

Valerie Giles owns and operates Boats, Anchors and More http://www.boats-anchors-and-more.com a boating resource site featuring boat accessories, fishing lure manufacturers and inflatable boats. Everything you need for the boating season. The accompanying article is copyrighted. It may be reproduced only if the hyperlinks here are left intact.

Survival of the Fittest and Natural Selection Issues
11.01.09 | Comments Off

Even science admits that accidents account for many deaths of individuals in a species, evolutionary scientists have proved that many traits and ancestral propensities do not enable the individual to withstand factors in the surroundings in which he lives, such as the struggle for survival that particularly marks the life and death of the animals. Of course, what may be called chance or accident results in many deaths of individuals otherwise well fitted to survive, but if we consider that this phenomenon goes on continuously over long stretches of time, we see that at some point a genetic favoritism will begin to emerge.

Herbert Spencer labeled this process the “survival of the fittest,” and though the term may not be scientifically correct in the case of any given species in any one year, when we view that the battle is going on constantly, during the entire duration of each species, we cannot doubt that generally speaking those which survive are among the fittest. The fight for survival is so strong and so perpetual that the most minior weakness in any sense organ and any physical weakness will almost surely, at one time or another, be fatal.

This continual weeding out of the less fit, in every generation will effect two separate consequences, which require to be clearly distinguished. The first of the two is the conservation of each species in the broadest state of adaption to the circumstances of its environment. As long as these circumstances are unaltered, the consequence of natural selection is to keep each well-adapted species unchanged.

The second of these conditions occurs whenever the conditions change. The most suited will adapt more successfully, and the typical process of natural selection will evolve more quickly, according to the conditions. This process will eventually bring about complete adjustment to the new conditions. Some scientists accept pure probability, but observe that the process of natural selection in weeding out the genetically weaker and thus keeping every species in the fullest state of adaptation.

The issue of natural selection and survival of the fittest does not play out significantly in the contemporary debate between the proponents of evolution theory, intelligent design theory, and creation theory. In the evolution, intelligent design, creationism debate the matter of natural selection is nearly a moot point, given that evolution theory and intelligent design theory are in reasonable accord on the matter, while creation theory denies it completely. There is a great deal of disagreement on this evidenced in the evolution creationism debate, most unusual of which is an Oprah Winfrey creationism controversy.

Why Is Algebra Important?
09.09.09 | Comments Off

What is Algebra?

Maths has long been one of the most frightening subjects in American schools. While in other countries graduate pupils excel in math, many of the average high school age pupils in the United States scratch their heads when presented questions about converting fractions to decimals, converting measures and units, resolving radical inequalities , or solving radical equations . It makes sense that this predicament is as widespread as it is. Algebra consists of various complicated mathematical equations that it is easy for a student to get lost when expected to explain synthetic division or adding fractions . For that matter, letters are heavily used for replacing the numbers when it comes to algebra. While this isn’t highly complex in and of itself, it brings itself poorly to the ‘jump in and play’ view of some mathematics. Put simply, the ability to perform a certain algebraic task is based on the person already having learned a task that led to it. This is to say that Algebra is a procedure that expects mastery of every step in order to progress. A student can’t hope for finding square root radicals and roots when he or she has not learned proportions and ratios, or converting measures and units.

Technological Help for Algebra:

While this is not a recent occurrence, it appears that mathematics grades have slipped even further in recent years. The blame can be ascribed to many parties, but no answer comes out of finger pointing. Recently, there have been extracurricular assists on the market to help pupils groom mathematical skills when out of the classroom. What little software system or program there was, more geared towards aiding younger children grasp the concepts of arithmetic. Luckily, the market for such a product has coincided with the technology necessary, allowing an inflow of ‘algebra computer software‘ or ‘algebra solver‘ programs that let the mastery of algebra to anybody with a computer and a mouse.

Algebra Software Packages:

These algebra calculators vary depending on the brand and the program. Some may offer such features as graphing a circle, or solving simultaneous equations, but may not have the programming required for resolving exponential equations or adding exponents. The users are suggested to assess these algebra software system upon purchase, although nearly all the computer software promote their features. The best bet for anybody who is interested in computer aid for subtracting rational expressions or converting decimals to fractions; fundamentally, whatever particular need you would have, is to refer the web and explore the product in question.

Why Don’t We like Algebra?
07.10.09 | Comments Off

Maths has many subdivisions and algebra is one of the most stressed branches which studies structure, relation and quantity. Numbers, symbols, elements, and variables are all within the domain of algebra. Students are presented fundamental constructs and methodologies of resolving equations in elementary algebra like solving radical systems of inequalities, understanding polynomials along with factoring binomials, trinomials and polynomials as well as the determination of their roots.
Many beginners in algebra favor linear equations as they are the simplest to solve. An extension of linear equations leads to the simultaneous equations with two or three variables. As we progress further in the sequence to quadratic, bi-quadratic and cubic equations, they turn more and more complex to solve.

The Origin of Algebra

Everyone who is keen on studying algebra needs to go through elementary algebra as it lays the base for intermediate or college algebra. Apart from covering mathematical expressions, it also contains of all kinds of equations like linear, quadratic and cubic. All geometric shapes such as circle, hyperbola, and parabola can be presented as equations.
These equations can be solved for different combinations by creating a graph. Lines are the product of graphing simple linear equations. It is quite easy to solve systems of equations when represented graphically. Two or more equations with the same number of variables are commonly known as a system of equations. It can be both linear and non-linear. Systems of equations with inequalities (example; x>y) when graphed creates an area on the graph which matches the inequality condition.

Matrices aid find solution to a lot of complicated problems like the ones present in electrical networks. A matrix is a rectangular range of numbers organized in rows and columns. The numbers in a matrix are known as entries. Various operations like addition, multiplication and decomposition can be performed on matrices thereby providing practical answers for theoretical questions.

Aid for Algebra

Algebra constitutes the spine of numerous other applications of maths, science and engineering. Once computer technology arrived in to the world of algebra, it has taken algebra to a new dimension by help solving century old problems within a matter of few hours. Although algebra seems complex, the reality is slightly different. There is a lot of assistance and tutorials available to aid you excel the world of algebra.
World Wide Web resources like algebra solver package are interactive, present algebra lesson and assistance you resolve your homework problems. If you have not followed something in your algebra course of study or feel that you have missed an critical mathematical concept, web tutors can allow you that extra assistance. Algebra calculators guide you over your homework with a bit-by-bit calculations and explanations. You can improve your knowledge with the help of the interactive tools. You can also appraise your knowledge at the conclusion of a lesson by taking the quiz.

Identifying Cases of Mesothelioma Involves Medical Tests
07.01.09 | Comments Off

Cancer of the mesotheliumis known to have a few primary symptoms. The primary symptom of pleural mesothelioma is shortness of breath as a consequence of pleural effusion ” the accumulation of fluid in the pleura, or membrane, surrounding the lung. Another common symptomis chest pain because the chest wall is being attacked by the tumor. Other symptoms may include weight loss, fatigue, and night sweats

The main indicator of patients with abdomen mesothelioma, which is centralized in the abdomen, is fluid buildup (known as ascites) in the abdomen causing abdominal swelling, pain in the abdomen, and blockage of the bowel.

It is key to understand that these symptoms could be caused by a myriad of diseases or conditions. But if you have experienced any of these symptoms and have had asbestos exposure, you should see your doctor.

Pleural mesothelioma is difficult to diagnose, because many symptoms are also associated with less serious conditions. These symptoms include:

  • Shortness of breath
  • Lower back or chest pains from a buildup of fluid in the pleura
  • Running a temperature
  • Nausea
  • Raspy voice
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Coughing blood

One should not self-diagnose themselves. Sufferers of the above symptoms should not panic, and should consult their doctor. A biopsy is the primary way the condition is confirmed. A pathologist removes a piece of tissue from the suspected region and examines the biopsy which results in a very precise diagnosis. Biopsies are generally not painful.

A CT scan (Computer Tomography is an option if you dont want a biopsy. This is an X-ray procedure where a scanner is moved around the body to snap cross-sectional pictures. A patient might have to ingest a dye to help define the pictures. CT scans might be advantageous because of their simplistic and non-invasive nature, and they are known to be an effective diagnostic tool. Opinion is divided as to whether the scan is more or less cost-effective than a biopsy. If there are irregularities, a biopsy may also be needed to know if the abnormality is a tumor, and if thats the case, if its malignant or benign. Pleural mesothelioma can also be diagnosed by looking for cancer cells in a sample of fluid from the pleura.

These methods can also diagnose and screen patients for mesothelioma. Screening is when patients who may suspect they are at risk are tested for the condition without displaying any symptoms, to catch the cancer early or to make sure the patient is not otherwise in danger. Patients should be screened for mesothelioma if they have a history of asbestos exposure.

Algebra - the Thinker’s Subject
05.08.09 | Comments Off

What is Algebra?

It is an area of mathematics that use alphabetic characters in replacement of numbers to derive results for a given situation. It is this generalization that often scares many and thrills some. Algebra topics extend from working with fractions to factoring binomials all the way to finding the inverse of a matrix. Most individuals start to learn Algebra by adding, subtracting, reducing and simplifying fractions. They then move on to understanding equivalent fractions , finding Least Common Multiples (LCM) and converting fractions to decimals.

Exponents and Radicals and Graphing Oh My!

There are numerous advanced topics. To start off with there are exponents. A power is the tiny number placed as superscript to a number or algebraic expression. An example is (x + y)3 where the 3 is the power and denotes the power to which that number is exponentiated. The above algebraic expression is read, x plus y to the third power. In working with exponents you can add, subtract, multiple or divide them. If you pick up the basics, you will shortly get down to working with rational and negative exponents and if you think those are not challenging enough, hopefully complex number will spin your head. A radical, simply put, is the reversing of an power. The V beside 4 denote a radical expression which means, the square root of 4, which equals 2. The reverse exponential equation is 2^2 which is read, 2 to the 2nd power, and equals 4. Moreover, exponents can be added, subtracted, multiplied or divided by radicals. Radicals can be changed into exponents and exponents back into roots. If you find that exponents and roots don’t really brace your interest, you could move on to graphing. Start with graphing straight lines and observing if the line is horizontal or vertical or neither. Does the line have an x-intercept or a y-intercept? Can you find the slope of the line? you master the mathematical art of graphing, you will discover a whole new world filled with parabolas and hyperbolas.

Need Help?

While you are learning algebra if the terms and concepts seem too much to handle, relax and take a break. Did you know that there are many resources out there that can help you master complex systems of inequalities , quadratic formulas and polynomials. Look for math tutors or software programs that will walk you through gradual process on how to solve any problem. You can also use algebra calculators or algebra solvers. any of these instruments can assist you become an algebra guru in very little time.

Can Algebra Be Useful?
04.01.09 | Comments Off

After an full-clad search over the reasons behind the maximum school dropouts, a consistency was found in the answers of the majority of the participants pointing towards Algebra. It is well said, that just the knowledge of the tutor is not alone enough to grow interest in the study for the students. It s the technique; the subject is delivered to its students which leads a lot for developing interest in the discipline matters.

What is Algebra?

In short, algebra is a arm of maths that deal with letters in place of numbers in order to solve equations; therefore, algebraic equations can be viewed as a scale. The basic theories of algebra includes real numbers, complex numbers, matrices and vectors.

The Different Domains

Generally, algebra spreads across many domains of mathematics. some such areas are Multiplying exponents, dividing exponents, Solving linear equations , Finding Greatest common factor or GCM, Multiplying, Adding, Subtracting fractions and many more.

If these areas have terrified you, then I must give you some definitions which will really ease the situation and give you the real essence of algebra.

Exponents are just shorthand for referring multiplication of identical factors. Fractions are equally interesting and actually are used when representing numbers that describe the parts of a whole. Many such similar areas in algebra may sound threatening at the beginning, but once you understand the simple concept behind it, you will be delighted by its purpose. To state a few more - Mixed numbers, Quadratic formula, Graphing linear inequalities, solving compound in equalities , Factoring binomials, and Factoring polynomials; are all algebraic expressions.

I am sure it will be obscuring to understand mixed numbers, you may be astonished to find out that they are a type of fractions Similarly, graphing linear equalities may be self explanatory and there are many other similar algebraic expressions that may sound complex but are extremely interesting to work with.

How to Find a Private Instructor

If you are interested in exploring the domain of algebraic expressions yet do not have a tutor to aid you in the operation, leave your worries behind since online lessons will come for your rescue. These lessons emphasize the practical ways instead of theory, presenting reliable techniques. The algebra solver software can guide you step by step in solving your maths sums and it can also provide explanations of all steps.

Energy Aware and Waste Wise
01.01.09 | Comments Off

Constantly bombarded with negative information about the environment, finances and natural resources? Feeling overwhelmed? Each and every one of us can do something to help our world - starting right where we are, right now. Though not everyone can afford to donate cash or time to a cause, there are endless tactics that will decrease an individual’s contribution to the landfill and their resource consumption.

Mirrors, placed strategically in a room can be used to make use of natural lighting more efficiently, and reduce energy use as well. When placed near indoor plants, mirrors act like a second window creating better growing conditions while giving the illusion of increased space and greenery to the ambiance of a room.

When loading the clothes dryer, fluff the wet and tangled laundry before tossing into the machine. This allows for immediate and more efficient use of dryer energy. Very hot settings (which can actually shrink clothing) can thus be avoided.

Typically, the heated air from a clothes dryer is pumped outside and wasted. Consider purchasing a dryer vent converter - available at most hardware stores. These are little boxes that divert the heated air from the dryer into the house during the cold and dry winter months - making better use of your energy dollar while saving a little on heating costs. Be warned that this air is moist, and this may not be appropriate in all situations. Homes with dry static air or wood heat would benefit from the moisture, but buildings that already have a moisture problem (evident by mould and mildew or sweating and frosted windows) will only have their issues compounded by doing this.

Instead of buying disposable dryer sheets for static control, consider using a liquid fabric softener with a reused rag or sock. Pour a Tablespoon of the liquid on the rag, roll it up and squeeze (to soak up all the softener) and toss in the dryer. Wash the rag periodically by throwing it in with a normal load. Just imagine the number of dryer sheets, the packaging they came in, along with the costs, energy and resources to produce them that can be avoided by this one simple act.

There are many other little things we can do around our home, to save money and reduce waste. Instead of purchasing a plastic drip tray for potted plants, reuse plastic lids from peanut butter or mayonnaise. Often, just the right size of lid can be found for each potted plant, and most of these are dishwasher safe. Foil food trays also serve this purpose.

Plastic containers that fresh herbs are sold in make useful storage packages in the kitchen. Dried herbs and vegetables store well in these containers as long as the seal is airtight. We once bought some very nice fresh ginger in Vancouver’s Chinatown and could not use it all in one recipe. Dave placed the peeled and sliced root in the herb containers covering it with red wine vinegar. Stored in the refrigerator it kept for months this way and made it easy to add fresh tasting ginger to any dish.

These are just a few ideas to demonstrate how easy it is to make a difference while saving some money. Imagine how many other small things you can do around the home or office. Once the ideas have begun to flow, they will cause a ripple effect cascading into other aspects of your life. Then, hopefully, you will think twice before throwing anything into the trash.

– Written by Dave and Lillian Brummet based on the concept of their book, Trash Talk. The book offers useful solutions for the individual to reduce waste and better manage resources. A guide for anyone concerned about their impact on the environment. (www.sunshinecable.com/~drumit)

High-Efficiency Vacuum Insulation oil recycling, oil filter,oil purifier, oil filtering, oil purific
09.22.08 | Comments Off

VFD-Double-Stage High-Efficiency Vacuum Insulation Oil Purifier
Application VFD series is mainly used to improve the properties
of insulation oil. It can remove trace water, gas, particulate
matters etc. from the insulating oil effectively and rapidly so
as to boost performance of transformers, circuit breakers,
mutual inductors, cable and capacitors which has insulation
system. VFD series specialize in purifying branded oil,
insulating oil of high voltage and super high voltage
transformer. Additionally, it is suitable for treating low
viscosity lubrication oil.