Thursday, November 26, 2009

Monday, November 23, 2009

A few Tips for saving energy at work

Turn off your computer when it isn't being used. Each computer consumes about 150 watts. About 30 to 40 per cent of personal computers and printers are left running at night and on weekends. These machines are idle as much as 90 per cent of their workday. Switching computer equipment on and off will not damage the components.

Photocopy only what you need. Photocopiers are by far the most energy intensive office machines.

Reduce lighting. Natural light saves on energy and is easier on the eyes. Open curtains and blinds to bring more natural light into your work area.

Use appliances appropriately. Many offices have small appliances such as kettles, coffee makers, and heaters. Where possible, consider using a communal appliance on each floor. Using larger appliances is generally more efficient than running a number of small appliances.

Encourage decision-makers to purchase energy-efficient office equipment, lights and appliances.
Encourage alternatives to driving to work alone. For example, organize a car pool, a "leave the car at home" day or a friendly "bike to work" challenge.

Monday, November 16, 2009

Heart attacks are at increased risk while watching exciting sporting events


Reduced blood flow to the heart may help explain why men who'e had a heart attack are at increased risk for another while watching exciting sporting events, Chinese researchers report.

The study included 38 male heart attack survivors who watched live broadcasts of Olympic Games competitions or entertainment television programs. While the men watched the shows, their coronary artery blood flow to the heart was assessed by ST-segment analysis using continuous 12-lead electrocardiography, blood pressure monitoring and heart rate measurement.

Overall, blood flow to the heart was generally stable. But when the men watched an exciting sporting event, blood pressure increased, heart rate variability decreased, and platelet aggregation (the building blocks of blood clots) increased. All these factors increase the risk of heart attack, the study authors noted.

Wednesday, November 11, 2009

PHYSICAL ACTIVITY - A MUST FOR ALL


Engage in regular physical activity and reduce sedentary activities to promote health, psychological well-being, and a healthy body weight.

To reduce the risk of chronic disease in adulthood: Engage in at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity, above usual activity, at work or home on most days of the week.

For most people, greater health benefits can be obtained by engaging in physical activity of more vigorous intensity or longer duration.

To help manage body weight and prevent gradual, unhealthy body weight gain in adulthood: Engage in approximately 60 minutes of moderate- to vigorous-intensity activity on most days of the week while not exceeding caloric intake requirements.

To sustain weight loss in adulthood: Participate in at least 60 to 90 minutes of daily moderate-intensity physical activity while not exceeding caloric intake requirements. Some people may need to consult with a healthcare provider before participating in this level of activity.

Achieve physical fitness by including cardiovascular conditioning, stretching exercises for flexibility, and resistance exercises or calisthenics for muscle strength and endurance.

Monday, November 02, 2009

Tips for a Safe Abroad Trip


• Register so the State Department can better assist you in an emergency: Register your travel plans with the State Department this will help us contact you if there is an emergency.

• Sign passport, and fill in the emergency information: Make sure you have a signed, valid passport, and a visa, if required, and fill in the emergency information page of your passport.

• Leave copies of itinerary and passport data page: Leave copies of your itinerary, passport data page and visas with family or friends, so you can be contacted in case of an emergency.

• Check your overseas medical insurance coverage: Ask your medical insurance company if your policy applies overseas, and if it covers emergency expenses such as medical evacuation. If it does not, consider supplemental insurance.

• Familiarize yourself with local conditions and laws: While in a foreign country, you are subject to its laws.

• Take precautions to avoid being a target of crime: To avoid being a target of crime, do not wear conspicuous clothing or jewelry and do not carry excessive amounts of money. Also, do not leave unattended luggage in public areas and do not accept packages from strangers.