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So, I was wondering what's really important on this day?

• I started my voyage around the Sun at about 2 am on 28th feb 1988 and today I've orbited the sun 17 times.
  
• Legaly, I'm an adult from now on! {oh! really }
• The moon circled me about 240 times
• The year was 1988, leap yr, if I'd born a day after....on 29th....Feb...?
• Mom said it rained that day
• India celebrates National Science Day on the 28th February of every year. It is on this day that Sir.CV Raman discovered Raman effect in 1928 and recieved Nobel Prize in 1930 {Physics}.

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Moving on..
I had another big idea...
which can, {I think}
> Revolutionise Solar Cars,
> Generate energy from traffic on roads,
> Efficiently Capture solar energy from the roof of your home
> Can be installed in high-rise buildings.
But first, understand what's a Solar Tower. See the animation below;



See that the ground surface is flat and still we are able to concentrate sunlight, without using any parabolic reflectors etc.
So,
Now imagine a miniature version of this arrangement. Tiny little reflectors {like the heliostats} are mounted on a flexible {say plastic} sheet. These reflectors are mounted in a checked arrangement, just like the chess-board. And we'll use some form of electronics to control the alignment of the reflectors.


Control?
With a digital circuit controlling the alignment of reflectors; just like pixels are controlled in LCD screens; we can 'tell' the reflectors to face the sun and align in such a way that sunlight is focussed on a point in space.
Results? {Imagined ;) }
Visualise a Solar car covered end to end with such a sheet. And we can add a mini tower on the top of vehicle. This tower will act as a collector of sunlight and it will channelise the intense beam of light into the body of car. Then, we can seperate this light-beam into its constituent colours {spectrum}(earlier post) and place solar cells at the blue end and a stirling engine {heat engine} at the red end.

See! we have increased the power of Solar car:
Present Day Solar Car Power = Light+Photovoltaic cells
Our Solar Car Power = [Light+Photovoltaic cells]+[Heat+Stirling Engine] => More power
See the Difference!
Other uses of this idea will be discussed later. Its 4 am now; I'm feelin sleepy. Ceya

Do you like this idea? Any Questions?
Please provide Feedback.
Feel free to do so. Click on "Comments" below

Although it is commonly believed to be a condition that primarily affects children, it is estimated that 12 to 15 million American adults also suffer from Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. But because child ADHD treatment and symptoms can differ slightly from adult ADHD and treatment, and because research into adult ADHD is still in its early stages, many adults do not know how to evaluate whether they are suffering from the disorder.

There is no single test that will identify ADHD, and there are no specific genetic or biological indicators that will lead to a diagnosis. Instead, it is necessary to consult a doctor who will conduct a comprehensive evaluation which will include extensive examination of past behavior, and should also include a physical exam to rule out any other possible source of the symptoms.

ADHD symptoms differ from person to person, but according to the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, which is often used in ADHD research studies, they can include:

-Difficulty organizing tasks and activities
-Often losing things necessary for tasks or activities
-Often easily distracted by outside stimuli
-Not listening when spoken to directly
-Difficulty awaiting turn
-Difficulty playing or engaging in leisure activities quietly

All of the symptoms listed by the APA (and these are just a few) are meant to describe those found in children, but they can be used as a general guideline for adults as well. However, adult symptoms can manifest themselves in more subtle ways, and the hyperactivity seen in children is often less evident in adults. Instead, adults may be restless, on edge, and have trouble relaxing.

Diagnosing ADHD in adults is made more complex by the variety of conditions which can share similar symptoms. These conditions include drug or alcohol dependency, depression and thyroid dysfunction.

Although recognizing adult ADHD symptoms can be difficult, once diagnosed, adults have many options for treatment. Stimulant drugs such as Ritalin, which are often prescribed for children, have not been approved by the FDA for treatment of adults. They may still be effective, but can potentially produce unwanted side effects. Certain homeopathic remedies have also been found to be extremely effective in some patients. Homeopathic ingredients such as Avina Sativa (Green Oats) and Gingo Biloba are among those which can help alleviate symptoms.

Many studies agree that medication should be just one facet of treatment. Behavioral and psychological treatment, or what is called a “multimodal” approach, should be considered as well. Armed with good information and a certain amount of patience, you should be able to obtain an accurate diagnosis and explore effective treatments for your condition.

The medical and behavioral side effects of ADD medications such as Ritalin and Adderall have many parents searching for natural alternatives for their children. While traditional medications can be effective, the risks are many, and reactions differ from child to child. As parents become disillusioned with prescription ADD medications or simply decide to try natural alternatives first, more and more are turning to natural ADD supplements. And as more natural medications are developed, more is known about the ingredients that are most effective in treating the symptoms of ADD.

Ginko Biloba is one of the best-known natural remedies for ADD. It helps to increase neurotransmitter levels and blood flow to the brain, which aids the brain's ability to focus. One of the most positive qualities of Ginko Biloba is the tendency of its effects to become permanent, which eventually renders continued use unnecessary. This quality is emblematic of many homeopathic ingredients.

Brahmi is an herb that is believed to have many positive effects on the brain, including an ability to increase overall cognitive function. It can help improve your child's ability to learn, and recent research shows it might have an additional benefit of protecting the brain from free radicals.

Gotu Kola, otherwise known as Centella Asiatica, is an excellent child ADHD treatment (and ADD treatment) and can reduce reduce your child's anxiety level and augment his or her brain funtion. It also enhances memory and has been shown in studies to improve blood flow to the brain and general circulation.

Skullcap is an herbal remedy for ADD that is used to treat common symptoms like restlessness and agitation. It can also aid in combatting insomnia.

St. John's Wort is another natural supplement that should be taken long-term in order for its positive effects to become permanent. It should be used if your child is suffering from depression, insomnia, fear or anxiety.

All of these ingredients can alleviate many of the symptoms of ADD, and there are a variety of natural remedies on the market that combine some of the listed ingredients to produce successful results. Natural remedies are a predominantly safe and effective ADD treatment, and a popular alternative to prescription stimulants and other traditional ADD medications. Abruptly stopping prescription medication can be harmful to your child, so if you decide to take this step, consult your doctor before changing your child's routine. Just as with traditional medications, it can take time for your child to feel the effects of natural supplements, and each child can react slightly differently. Hopefully, you will find that natural remedies have a positive influence on your child, and on your life.

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Useful links:
ADD/Concentration (1-12 yrs)
ADD/Concentration (12 yrs+)

If you are like many parents, deciding how best to medicate your child for ADHD is not an easy task. Along with the increased prescription of stimulant drugs for children has come a heightened awareness of the risks these medications can pose, and more and more parents are searching for natural alternatives. According to the Drug Enforcement Agency, the manufacture of stimulant drugs has increased by more than 500 percent since 1991, and over 50 percent of the prescriptions for these drugs are written by pediatricians. Unsurprisingly, these alarming statistics have raised questions about whether some doctors and parents are too quick to medicate children, and whether it might be worthwhile to try homeopathic remedies for ADHD before turning to stimulant drugs.

The reason drugs like Ritalin and Adderall can be successful in treating ADHD is because they stimulate brain activity. While extra stimulation may seem like the last thing a hyperactive child needs, the heightened activity in fact helps the brain to focus and pay attention. There are several herbal ingredients which act similarly to stimulate the brain, and can be used as part of an effective child ADHD treatment plan.

Among these ingredients is Brahmi, an herb that has long been known to enhance cognitive function. Brahmi can help increase learning abilities, and according to research, it provides another healthful benefit of protecting the brain from damage from free radicals.

Ginko Biloba is well-known herb that is often found in natural medications. It is popular for it's ability to generate increased blood flow to the brain, as well as increased neurotransmitter levels, helping the brain to focus. Perhaps one of the best qualities of Ginko is the tendency of its positive effects to become permanent, eliminating the need for its continued use.

Centella Asiatica, which is also called Gotu Kola, is a natural ingredient that has been shown to reduce anxiety levels and enhance memory and brain function. Recent research has also suggested that it helps to increase blood flow to the brain and improve general circulation.

Siberian Ginseng is another natural brain stimulant that increases endurance and concentration. This particular herb also moderates the release of body energy and normalizes body function. Similarly, Panax Ginseng, a Chinese herb, has been shown to reduce stress and fatigue, strengthen the immune system, increase motivation and also normalize body function.

There are effective herbs for hyperactivity, and the herbs mentioned above have all been used successfully in treatment for ADHD. There are a wide variety of herbal remedies available that are created by experts in the field, and combine multiple ingredients that both stimulate and soothe for the best effect. Since many herbal stimulants have effects on the brain that are similar to the effects produced by prescription stimulants, the two types of medications should never be taken together. It is essential to consult a doctor before trying any new medication or before stopping any medication, and if you do ultimately decide to try ADHD natural remedies, remember to give them at least a few weeks to take effect. You might be among those who find it is a healthy and effective alternative to prescription stimulant drugs for your child.
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Visit Focus ADHD Formula - ADHD treatments

If you are like many parents, deciding how best to medicate your child for ADHD is not an easy task. Along with the increased prescription of stimulant drugs for children has come a heightened awareness of the risks these medications can pose, and more and more parents are searching for natural alternatives. According to the Drug Enforcement Agency, the manufacture of stimulant drugs has increased by more than 500 percent since 1991, and over 50 percent of the prescriptions for these drugs are written by pediatricians. Unsurprisingly, these alarming statistics have raised questions about whether some doctors and parents are too quick to medicate children, and whether it might be worthwhile to try homeopathic remedies for ADHD before turning to stimulant drugs.

The reason drugs like Ritalin and Adderall can be successful in treating ADHD is because they stimulate brain activity. While extra stimulation may seem like the last thing a hyperactive child needs, the heightened activity in fact helps the brain to focus and pay attention. There are several herbal ingredients which act similarly to stimulate the brain, and can be used as part of an effective child ADHD treatment plan.

Among these ingredients is Brahmi, an herb that has long been known to enhance cognitive function. Brahmi can help increase learning abilities, and according to research, it provides another healthful benefit of protecting the brain from damage from free radicals.

Ginko Biloba is well-known herb that is often found in natural medications. It is popular for it's ability to generate increased blood flow to the brain, as well as increased neurotransmitter levels, helping the brain to focus. Perhaps one of the best qualities of Ginko is the tendency of its positive effects to become permanent, eliminating the need for its continued use.

Centella Asiatica, which is also called Gotu Kola, is a natural ingredient that has been shown to reduce anxiety levels and enhance memory and brain function. Recent research has also suggested that it helps to increase blood flow to the brain and improve general circulation.

Siberian Ginseng is another natural brain stimulant that increases endurance and concentration. This particular herb also moderates the release of body energy and normalizes body function. Similarly, Panax Ginseng, a Chinese herb, has been shown to reduce stress and fatigue, strengthen the immune system, increase motivation and also normalize body function.

There are effective herbs for hyperactivity, and the herbs mentioned above have all been used successfully in treatment for ADHD. There are a wide variety of herbal remedies available that are created by experts in the field, and combine multiple ingredients that both stimulate and soothe for the best effect. Since many herbal stimulants have effects on the brain that are similar to the effects produced by prescription stimulants, the two types of medications should never be taken together. It is essential to consult a doctor before trying any new medication or before stopping any medication, and if you do ultimately decide to try ADHD natural remedies, remember to give them at least a few weeks to take effect. You might be among those who find it is a healthy and effective alternative to prescription stimulant drugs for your child.
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Visit Focus ADHD Formula - ADHD treatments

Yet, another urban myth of modern medicine bites the dust. Many alternative health experts have questioned the wisdom of women automatically taking calcium supplements for years, only to be dismissed by conventional medical doctors. Now a recent study validates that there may be a only very limited benefit for women's bone health from taking calcium and vitamin D supplements.

Although there is controversy surrounding them, stimulants are still the most commonly prescribed type of medication for children with ADD and ADHD. The Drug Enforcement Agency says that stimulant drug production has increased 500 percent since 1991, and over half of the prescriptions for them are written by pediatricians. Stimulants are often effective in treating many of the symptoms of ADD -- but are they the best ADD treatment for your child? Many parents are concerned about the side effects stimulants can produce and choose to investigate other options like behavioral therapy and herbal supplements as well. When it comes to making a decision that affects your child's health, having the facts is essential.

ADD stimulant medications work by increasing the levels of the chemicals epinephrine and norepinephrine in the brain, which helps the brain to transmit signals between nerves. This improves a child's (or adult's) ability to pay attention for extended periods of time. But these medications also come with a risk of mild and serious side effects. Some of the most common side effects include headaches, upset stomach and increased blood pressure, all of which may diminish as the body adjusts after the first few weeks of treatment. Other common side effects include decreased appetite (80% of stimulant users report this), nervousness and sleeplessness. Research has also shown that stimulants can stunt growth during treatment, but have not been proven to affect final height. Less common but more serious side effects include hallucinations and feelings of suspicion or paranoia, Tourette's Syndrome, and suicidal thoughts.

Children on stimulants (Ritalin, Adderall and Concerta are the best-known brands) should be watched closely and their dosages should be evaluated regularly. These medications are most effective when they are administered in the correct dosage for each individual and when they are combined with additional ADD treatments like behavioral therapy and practical and emotional support. Non-stimulant drugs, such as Strattera, can also be effective, but carry a risk of similar side effects.

In light of the risks that prescription medications carry, many parents are interested in exploring an herbal remedy for ADD. There is more than one herb that has been shown to be an effective ADD or ADHD child treatment, and there are a variety of natural remedies on the market that combine many of them. Ginko Biloba, Green Oats, Brahmi, Gotu Kola and Panax Ginseng are some of the best ingredients, and the positive effects of some of them (like Ginko) can become permanent even after discontinuing use.

While stimulant medication is often successful in treating ADD, it can sometimes cause its own set of problems. Weigh the risks and the benefits carefully, and make the decision that is right for your own child. Just as each child exhibits symptoms of ADD differently, each child will react differently to medication and treatment. Patience and thorough research should lead you to a healthy solution for your child.
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by Tess Thompson

UPDATE: This is a list of the top ten green energy programs in the United States with the latest December 2005 figures and links to these electric utilities. One of the biggest differences we can make is to switch to "green energy" - energy generated from 100% renewable sources. Florida Power & Light is a new entry into the top ten at number four. The company recently announced the construction of the largest solar array in Florida on the site of a closed landfill in Sarasota. The 1,200 photovoltaic solar panels are each about 31 inches wide and 63 inches long. The facility is to be more than 28,000 square feet, or about half the size of a football field. "We sought a location that had a ground site large enough for 250 kilowatts of photovoltaic panels," said Jeff Bartel, FP&L VP of external affairs.

If you live in a part of the United States that is not served by an electric utility on this list please see this List of Green Energy Providers by State.

As our energy challenges are global I appreciate every assistance in compiling a similar list of renewable energy providers in other countries. Feel free to email or leave a comment.

Returning to the United States, Austin Energy has shown its commitment to renewable energy by topping the list. The U.S. Department of Energy said Austin Energy's Green Choice program sold more than 334 million hours of renewable energy last year.

More than 350 businesses in Austin get their power from renewable sources as an alternative to fossil fuels.

Austin Energy uses electricity from 61 West Texas wind turbines.

Here's the top ten green energy programs in the United States (as of December 2005).

1. Austin Energy -
areas served include Austin, Texas
green energy from Wind Power, Land Fill Gas, Small Hydro -
435 MWh/year

2. Portland General Electric (PGE) -
areas served include Portland, Oregon
green power from existing Geothermal, Wind Power, Small Hydro - 340 MWh/year

3. PacifiCorp - includes Pacific Power and Utah Power
areas served include:
Oregon, Washington, Wyoming, California, Utah, Idaho
green energy from Wind Power, Biomass, Solar Energy -
234 MWh/year

4. Florida Power & Light - green power from Biomass, Wind Power, Solar Energy - 225 MWh/year

5. Sacramento Municipal Utility District (SMUD) -
green power from Landfill Gas, Wind Power, Small Hydro, Solar Energy - 195 MWh/year

6. Xcel Energy -
areas served include: Denver,Colorado; Elkhart, Kansas; Wakefield, Michigan; Saint Paul, Minnesota; Roswell, New Mexico; Fargo, North Dakota; Boise City, Idaho; Sioux Falls, South Dakota; Amarillo, Texas; Eau Claire, Wisconsin
green electricity from Wind Power - 148 MWh/year

7. National Grid -
areas served include:
New York, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Nantucket
green power from Biomass, Wind Power, Small Hydro, Solar Energy - 128 MWh/year

8. Basin Electric Power Cooperative (SMUD) -
green power from Wind Power - 114 MWh/year

9. Puget Sound Energy (PSE)-
area served Washington state
green energy from Wind Power, Solar Energy, Biogas -
71 MWh/year

10. OG&E Electric Services -
area served Oklahoma
green electricity from Wind Power - 64 MWh/year

(source: NREL)

MWh/year = million kWh/year rounded down

List of Green Energy Providers by State

One of the single biggest ways we as individuals can encourage the use of alternative energy and help aid the transition to a post fossil fuel age is to buy electricity partly, or preferably completely, generated using alternative energy.

Switching your electricity utility provider may be as simple as requesting a form or filling one in online. That's exactly how I switched to 100% renewable energy (generated mainly from wind power with some solar power and small scale hydro thrown into the mix). Renewable energy options are available throughout the U.K. and in many other countries.

To find out if you can switch to renewable energy in your area look on your search engine of choice for "green energy", "green power" or "green electricity". You may also need to add your location to the search. If your local utility doesn't provide a renewable energy option yet, email or call them and ask why.

Original News 8 Austin Article

Green-e Certified Electricity Products