Premature Births and Infant Mortality Counterpoint

After reading several recent articles on US premature births and infant mortality in reference to the US health care, I decided to research the facts and data. The US ranks 33^rd in the world in infant mortality, an indicator of the health of a nation.

Approximately 13 million worldwide are born premature and 56 million infants die within one year of birth, of which 1 million are premature. The US has 475,000 born premature and 27,000 infants die annually. Premature births occur when the infant is born before the completion of the 37^th week of pregnancy.  The question is why the US has the premature birth and infant mortality rates for a nation with advanced health care?

The following are among the factors that could increase the risk of premature birth:

• Lack of proper prenatal care for expectant mother
• Drinking alcohol, using drugs, or smoking cigarettes
• Carry multiple babies or taking fertilization drugs
• Elective inductions or cesarean sections

• Certain Infections
• Shortened cervix
• Previously given birth preterm

• Having children after age 35

• Domestic violence, including physical, sexual or emotional abuse
• Extremely high levels of stress
• Long working hours-long periods of standing
• Diabetes or high blood pressure
• Being overweight, obesity
• Short time between pregnancies

I have tabulated the data collected by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the CIA, however it is very spotty (especially on preterm births) and needs more consistent collection (some does not make sense).

The data considered are taken from:

• CIA infant mortality data 2009
• Statistics by country for premature birth-appears to be unreliable in cases
• WHO & CIA list of countries by infant mortality rate-numbers vary
• CIA world birth rate 2009
• CIA infant mortality rate 2009
• World preterm birth rates 2009 by the March of Dimes

It is concluded that the US still rates high for health care, and there is not much that can be changed for preterm births and infant mortality without more societal changes.

Other articles of interest:

• German study confirms abortion significantly increases premature birth risks
• C-sections increasing premature births
• Preterm birth rate drops for the states
• Premature births worsen US infant death rate
• Why do women deliver early?

Who are the Uninsured Health Care Counterpoint

What are some facts and who are those Americans with Uninsured Health Care:

(Most figures come from an annual report issued by the United States Census Bureau)

1. There are 46.3 million (15.4% of population) in 2008
2. 36-39 million of uninsured (78-85%) are naturalized citizens
3. 14.8 million uninsured Hispanics (32.1% of Hispanics)
4. 7.4 million blacks (19.5% of blacks) lack insurance
5. 8.1 million children (under 18 yrs) are uninsured
6. 8.0 million young adults (18-24 yrs) are uninsured
7. 70% uninsured non-citizens live in California, Texas, Florida, New York
8. 13.5 million uninsured make below $25,000/yr income
9. 14.5 million uninsured make $25,000-$49,000/yr income
10. 8.5 million uninsured make $50,000-$75,000/yr income
11. 9.1 million uninsured make above $75,000/yr income
12. 20% of uninsured are able but elect not to collect insurance
13. 25% of uninsured are eligible for public insurance, but elect not
14. 56% of uninsured need financial assistance
15. 5 million uninsured are uninsurable because of pre-existing conditions
16. The per capita spending on 46 million uninsured is about half that of the 253 million insured
17. 83 million (27.8% of population) is covered by public government insurance

Other interesting articles for consideration:

The number of uninsured Americans is at an all time high.

US Census Bureau News

Uninsured count needs explanation

Uninsured immigrants Burden the Health Care System

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Biomass Fuel, Energy, Power Counterpoint

Biomass is a term being more frequently used for renewable fuel, energy and power made from any organic material from plants or animals. Sources are organic crops, plants, and trees, agricultural food and feed crops, and residues from plants, crops, wood, and animals-in other words what is left over or scraps. The usable by-products are gas additives (ethanol and biodiesel), methane gas (burned as fuel), and organic fibers and wood (for heat and generating electricity).

I became more interested in biomass after previously covering the following topics:

Solar Power/ Energy

Wind Turbine Power

Natural Gas Car Fuel

U.S. Oil Reserves

Price of Oil

Corn Food Fuel

Car Fuel Efficiency

Global Warming and Energy Reserves

Electrical Utilities are facing new rules requiring them to generate 20% of their power from renewable resources by 2020. Solar and wind power has been considered by most utilities and many don’t have the resources, or have run into legislative roadblocks. With all Utilities being required to meet quotas, they are now considering, and building, “Biomass” Power Plants, since they can get significant federal tax credits.

Most studies are based on data such as that from “The Engineering Toolbox”.  The data shows that the biomass energy is free, since the process is considered nearly carbon neutral, because the plants only emit the carbon they absorbed while they were growing. The time and volume of usage is neglected-it is not explained that more is used than grown, and in between there are fewer trees to absorb the carbon dioxide. The real world is more like Fig. 3 Plot “Pounds of CO2 per KWH” of the article “How to measure fuel efficiency, energy costs, and carbon emissions for home heating”.  Both coal and wood have the same high-level carbon footprint.

An interesting article, “Biomass Energy Facts”, is a good comprehensive worthwhile list. It is not mentioned that renewable energy in 2007 was 7% of the US energy supply, and of this 3% is biomass. In 2020 20% of US energy is to be by renewable, with a good part of the increase by biomass, meaning a much-increased usage of wood from trees that takes time to replace and is now a big source of CO2 absorption.

Of major concern is that states (Wisconsin, Massachusetts, Missouri, etc.) are now proceeding with biomass energy projects based on the process being considered nearly carbon neutral because the plants only emit the carbon they absorbed while they were growing. Is this a fact-based conclusion? And will the increased biomass usage have any effect on the natural cycling of CO2 because it takes time for volume replacement?

Other biomass information of interest:

Biomass Emissions-Air Emissions from Modern Wood Energy Systems

Massachusetts Forest and Environment Threatened

Spending of 2009 US Tax Dollars Counterpoint

I recently read an interesting article “So Here’s What Your Tax Dollars Buy”, by Brian Riedl. In particular, the statement “Washington will spend $33,880 per household in 2009…nearly $8000 more than last year.” A research of the approximate number of US households was estimated to be 112,900 for 2009. That calculates to 3.825 trillion dollars spent; a lot of money, so-what. But spending $33,880 dollars per household registers with me as a lot of money.

I decided to look at some facts that resulted in the following (a lot of numbers):

What is tabulated is the US total budget dollars for the years 2006-to-2010 with a listing of the category where spent, as given in the article by Riedl. The last column compares the article with the US government facts. The facts came from:

2006 United States Federal Budget

2007 United States Federal Budget

2008 United States Federal Budget

2009 United States Federal Budget

2010 United States Federal Budget

Items to notice:

The financial cost of the Iraq and Afghanistan war are not part of the defense budget.

The financial bailout and anti-poverty funding are separate funding.

The Total Tax Receipts have been shown broken out to show our total taxes.

The Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid funding has been broken out for each fund.

The Total Tax Receipts are given as billion dollars and as per-cent US budget.

It’s difficult to get a good uniform listing of actual US Tax dollar spending by category.

80% to 85% of US Taxes come from individual’s (Income and Social security) taxes.

The percentage corporate taxes doesn’t appear to be going up.

It is concluded that the detailed numbers given by the article tax dollar categories are suspect (not much), however the $33,880 spent per household may be conservative. Can you believe it?

Reference other info:

United States Federal Budget-wikipedia

2008 US Federal Budget-Kevin Colby news

USA Spending 2009

Projection of number of US Households

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Panorama Photos Counterpoint

Panorama photos are a way to extend the view of a photo opportunity so that a greater view may be obtained. These extended views have normally been considered horizontal (partial angle), but they can also be vertical, matrix (eg-2high x 2wide), 360 degree, and spherical. Many times this translates from an ordinary to a spectacular photo, and always shows more than what the normal camera can view.

Double-click one of the following for an example:

Horizontal (partial angle)

Vertical

Matrix

360 degrees

Spherical-see Rice University, Houston Texas, USA

My Panorama Site just started-for other examples

I’ve learned that it doesn’t take much equipment or software to get started with panorama photos. I have a Canon Powershot S45 digital camera and tripod, and several software programs:

PhotoVista V-2.0

EMC V-10 Photosuite Panorama Assistant

Canon Photostitch

Autostitch V-2.2

Photoshop Elements 3 “PhotoMerge”

MGI Photosuite 4 “Stitching”

Panorama Factory V-1.6

It has been found that no one program can be assured of making a good panorama photo from the set of photos taken. All of the above is older software, but some is better than newer software.

Another newer software I am now using is Panorama Studio 1.6 that gives good results in a short time.

For the partial angle and 360 degree panoramas a ptviewer.jar and ptviewer.class files are used for showing the panoramas on the web site. You should be able to see the source files. To view these panoramas on the internet your web browser must have the Java 6 add-on download.

Sites used for reference in learning are:

Autostitch  site.

Panorama Factory site.

Panoguide how to.

Panoramic Network-Panorama Stitchers.

Canon Photostitch Opinion

Stitching and Authoring Panoramas.

Panoguide product reviews

PTViewer-Jamie3d.com

Gregwired Panosauurus Tripod Head

Hope that this might spark your interest or get you started with panorama photos.

U.S. Population Growth Counterpoint

Since 1960 to 2050 the U.S. Population Growth is expected to go from 179 to 438 million. I have always considered it to be around 200 million until recently I saw it was 306 million. Where did the 100 million come from? And now I find out by the year 2050 there will be another 150 million. As of 2008, the U.S. comprises 4.5% of the World’s population.

The U.S. population distribution by race in 2006, of  299 million, as:

White-66% or 198.1 million

Hispanic-14.3% or 44.3 million

Black-13.4% or 40.9 million

Asian-4.4% or 13.1 million

American Indian or Alaskan native-.68% or 2 million

Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander-.14% or .43 million

The expected U.S. population by race in 2050, of  438 million, as:

White-47% or 206 million

Hispanic- 29% or 127 million

Black-13% or 57 million

Asian-9% or 39 million

What does this all mean, and how is the U.S. changing?

Additional Info:

1. Immigration to Play a Lead Role
2. U.S population by State
3. Black population by State
4. Asian population statistics
5. U.S. Hispanic population to triple by 2050

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Networking Old Printers on WinME\98, WinXP Host Counterpoint

I have a HP Deskjet 720\722C printer that I am using as the network printer on a desktop WinXP host computer along with a client WinME desktop, and a WinXP wireless notebook computer. I have everything now operating properly on my wireless gateway home network, however it took some time and searching. Perhaps you are doing something similar and are having the same problems.

First, I assume everyone has the printer working on each computer when they are set up separately. That means that you are using workable, and hopefully, up to date drivers. The drivers should either be on the OS installation CDs are on updated downloads.

Next, I assume everyone has set up a computer network, has it working to the point of sharing an Internet connection and files, and that an older printer is being used. The problem comes in depending on which computer is used to share the printer. If it is put on the client WinME\98 computer there should be no problem. However, if it is put on the host WinXP computer there could be a problem, as I found (a usable driver can’t be found).

To use the host WinXP computer printer the WinME\98 client computer must install a printer using the “start\settings\printers\add printer\ADD Printer Wizard”. Following the “Add Printer Wizard” you enter “Next”\select “Network Printer” button\”Next”\ and then select your printer or “Have Disk”. It is at this point there becomes a problem, because if you are like me, you have nothing-even though you try and try and……..

You search the Internet looking for a driver. HP and everyone else explains nicely how to install the driver, except it never works. Then ask them how, and get onto forums. No one gives a solution. Finally DriverGuide.com is found, because all roads looking for drivers reach DriverGuide.com, even if it doesn’t appear so.Yep, they list the solution for just this case and others.You download the driver, and it doesn’t work. You ask them why it doesn’t work, and they state the only drivers are the ones as was mentioned above, and even HP doesn’t have any more-why do you want to get another driver? I explained that I can’t print from my WinME\98 client PC with the printer on the host WinXP PC. “So, buy another printer.” I pointed out, “The DriverGuide site, that I referenced above, infers that there is another driver for networks with different OS. What does that mean?”

I then researched the Internet for how others have resolved this problem. It was almost hopeless, as no one had this solution. Through persistence the solution was finally found-Networking the HP722C. Hope this has helpful.

Financial Stability Plan and Economic Stimulus Package Counterpoint

If you are like me the “Financial Security Plan-TARP Reform and Accountability Act”, the “Economic Stimulus Package”, and any other plans have gotten confusing. Below is listed some facts for your consideration and possibly help with understanding.

Financial Security Plan-TARP Reform and Accountability Act

Here is a summary overview of the Treasury Financial Stability Plan . The plan will do four things:

1. To stabilize the system and restore confidence in our markets.
2. To revitalize lending and increase credit flow.
3. To get financial markets working again.
4. To keep people in their homes and curb housing crisis.

Since 10/28/2008 there are no firm plans in place, speculation is that some of the following ideas are currently on the table:

1. Expanded home buyer tax breaks
2. Further interest rate reductions
3. Bankruptcy law reforms
4. TARP funds for homeowners

This is a TARP summary tabulation capital purchase transaction report.

This is a map showing the financial institution headquarters receiving TARP money.

Secretary Geithner Introduces a new Financial Stability Plan 2/10/2009

1. Banking institutions must meet formulized guidelines
2. Establish a public-private investment fund for needed capital
3. Support a secondary consumer and business lending initiative
4. Launch a comprehensive housing program

The question is what does it mean?

Economic Stimulus Package-It’s a deal on the $798B Econ Plan.

Senate H.R. 1 PP Act “American Recovery and Reinvestment Act 0f 2009”

The “Economic Stimulus Package” is not new since it was presented in a 1/08 report, a year before the present presentation.

The Economic Stimulus package-Obama weekly address (1/24/09).

1. To double renewable energy generating capacity over three years.
2. To undertake the largest weatherization program in history.
3. To computerize every American health record in 5 years.
4. To launch the most ambitious school modernization program on record.
5. To enact largest investment increase on roads, bridges, and mass transit.

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Hybrid Car Batteries Technology Counterpoint

If you read my “Hybrid Cars Counterpoint” article you noticed it said little about the hybrid car batteries. In part that is because they are made, and the technology is, outside the U.S. Since then there have been many changes, and it now appears that the car battery is a priority for the U.S.. All car manufacturers are now coalescing around hybridization, and the technology and cost for the battery. The announcements of suppliers and developers are being made at the North American Auto Show in Detroit.

Batteries use the following technologies for specific applications:

1.   Nickel-Cadmium

Conventional car usage, low energy capacity, 3-5 yr life, contains toxic lead

2. Nickel Metal-Hydride (NiMH)

Current Hybrid car usage, higher energy capcaity, 5-8 yr life, expensive due to nickel

3. Lithium Ion

For small equipment, medium energy capacity, cheaper, plugin required

This battery guide shows the present Nickel-Metal Hydride batteries for the Toyota Prius, Toyota Highlander, Ford Escape, Honda Insight, and Saturn Vue.

There is not one Lithium Ion battery, but several formulations for the electrodes compete:

1. Cobalt Dioxide is most popular for small cells, but is prone to fire.

2. Nickle-cobalt-maganese (NCM) is easier to make, and cheaper, but has a shorter life.

3. Nickle-cobalt aluminum (NCA) is similar to NCM.

4. Manganese oxide spinel (MnO) offers high power, low cost, but lower energy density.

5. Iron phosphate (FePo) is inexpensive, has stability and safety, but requires more cells.

Battery design must consider that total energy determines the car’s electric range, while power determines its acceleration.

Present Hybrid car batteries are in demand. It appears the three main suppliers are Panasonic and Sanyo in Japan, and U.S. based Cobasys.

As was previously noted the present Nickel-Metal Hydride battery is expensive and is the predominate factor for the Hybrid car not being able to compete in the market place. Because of this the market place has decided to develop a cheaper battery-a new lithium battery. This article, “Are the Hybrid Cars Here to stay?”, gives a history of the hybrid cars and the hybrid batteries.

The Lithium-ion systems listed above are now in the experimentation stage by manufacturers. They offer extremely low internal resistance, deliver high load currents, and accept rapid change. The big drawback of these batteries are their durability or life, cost, safety, and availability. Currently Toyota, Honda, and Ford are leading in Hybrid  car technology. Presently, the biggest lithium-ion battery manufacturers are Sony in Japan, Samsung in South Korea, and Johnson Controls in the U.S.

A group of U.S. battery companies just teamed up to boost American manufacturing of Lithium-ion batteries. These aim to compete with the Asian companies that currently dominate the lithium-ion battery market.

Johnson Controls unveiled its re3 concept plug-in hybrid electric vehicle at the North American Auto Show in Detroit. Johnson Controls is a maker of the Lithium-ion battery and has just jointed up with Saft, a French venture partner, to make Lithium-ion batteries for Hybrid commercial trucks.

The latest development that was announced is that “Johnson gets Ford hybrid deal.”

Other articles on new technology and manufacturers developing the lithium-ion battery are;

MIT powers up new battery for Hybrid cars. (Lithium Nickle Manganese Oxide)

Mercedes Hybrid Car Battery breakthrough “Groundbreaking”

China’s BYD touts battery technology

Lithium Batteries for Hydrid Cars (GM)

In conclusion, the present battery used in Hybrid cars is an expensive Nickel-metal-hydroxide (NiMH) battery. The hope for the future is the development of a cheaper Lithium-ion battery (see above formulations).

Toenail Fungus Counterpoint

I have researched, consulted and studied several toenail fungus treatments. The fungus houses itself within the nail bed making it difficult to reach and therefore difficult to kill. Once affected, nails must be treated for a substantial period of time (months to years) to obtain a cure. Oral medications are available, but they are expensive, require physician blood testing maintenance, and may have side effects to body organs. Topical solutions are the safest, but they may be expensive, and tryout is required to determine their effectiveness. Below are listed some articles researched:

Toenail Fungus Warning-Toenail Fungus Cures explained; three toenail treatments considered (ZetaClear, Nail-Rx, Nail Fungus) with ZetaClear recommended.

Fungisil treatment-how it works.

What is the best nail fungus treatment available today? Fungisil, ZetaClear, Nail Rx, MedPure, Pedi-Cure

How can I cure toenail fungus? Use saltwater bathing and ZetaClear topical solution.

Toenail Fungus photos, stories, prevention, and information.

Nail Fungus-MayoClinic.com.

Toenail fungus home remedies.

Toenail fungus-Senior Health.

Toenail fungus pictures.

I also researched the Aetna InteliHealth website and talked to several professionals. They felt the toenail fungus would take a lengthy time period, be expensive, and would stand a good chance of not being successful, or could reoccur. I continued my research and found some home remedies listed below:

Listerine for Toenail Fungus-The People’s Pharmacy.

Listerine and Vinegar Fight Nail Fungus-The People’s Pharmacy.

Listerine Toenail Fungus Treatment.

Grandma’s Wisdom-Will Vinegar Treat Toenail Fungus?

Listerine Toenail Fungus Cure Tips.

I finally tried the 50/50 Vinegar/Listerine mixture and applied it by immersing my toes in it while scrubbing with a toothbrush. I noticed in two weeks time that my toenails were clearing up, and showing improvement. After two months the toenails are showing new growth without the thick fungus. The mixture is reusable, and is replaced about every two weeks dependent on the change in color. I’m slowly trimming away the fungus. At this point the treatment will take at least as long as it takes my toenails to fully grow out. Needless to say, I am satisfied with this treatment for the moment.