Problems Associated With Urban Noise Pollution - 1861 Words

Introduction Urban noise pollution is causing increased health risks in the population. This is due both to the fact that noise levels, particularly those associated with transport, have increased dramatically since the mid-twentieth century and that a higher percentage of the world population is now concentrated in urban systems. This problem has also increased economic costs due to failing health and reduced productivity of the population, affecting between 0.2% and 2% of gross domestic product in the US. In the European Union, the costs range between $13 billion and $38 billion per year. In addition, traffic noise causes the depreciation of properties exposed to high noise levels. Studies on urban noise are becoming more numerous,†¦show more content†¦As a starting point, vehicles were classified into the following categories: motorcycles, cars (including cars, trucks, small delivery vans and microbuses), buses, mini-buses (small buses) and trucks (over 3 tons). Subsequently, we conducted measurements of single noise on the streets of the city (n = 533 vehicles), seeking to exclude the impact of other vehicles and other sources of noise. To this end, we used an integrated Extech type II sound level meter (SLM) to evaluate the instantaneous sound level (Li,1sec) during the approach and passage of each vehicle in front of the SLM on roads with 1 and 2 lanes. These measurements followed conventional techniques and were conducted using a tripod and a windscreen at a height of 1.2 m at a distance of 1 m from the road with A and slow weights. In parallel, we gauged the pace at which every vehicle was voyaging utilizing manual Bushnell supplies. In all cases , the predominating conditions included level, dry streets, wind speeds short of what 4 km/h and a low frequency of other clamor sources. For each type of vehicle, we conducted a regression analysis between the maximum noise level (when passing in front of the SLM) and speed. Because this yielded low coefficients of determination, we implemented classification trees to dissociate subgroups depending on the speed of vehicles. Subsequently, we averaged all noise levels recorded in each subgroup at time zero (passing in front of the SLM) andShow MoreRelatedNoise Pollution : An Underrated Environmental Pollution Essay1051 Words   |  5 PagesYuemeng Ma ENVS*1030 Oct 7, 2016 Noise Pollution: An Underrated Environmental Pollution In April of 2011, WHO and the European Union Cooperative Research Center published a comprehensive report on the impact of noise on human health, Burden of disease from environmental noise. This is the most comprehensive study of noise pollution in recent years. Noise pollution is not only annoying, poor sleep, but also can trigger heart disease, learning disabilities and tinnitus and other diseases, but alsoRead MoreInadequate Sanitary Facilities At Dhaka Water And Sewerage Authority ( Dwasa ) Essay1596 Words   |  7 Pagescontamination. Noise Pollution The noise pollution is also a major health hazard in Bangladesh. According to World Health Organization (WHO), 60 decibel (DB) sound can make a man deaf temporarily and 100 DB sound can cause complete deafness. According to the Department of Environment (DOE), the perfect sound condition for Bangladesh is 45 dB for the daytime and 35 dB for the night in peaceful areas and 50 dB for the daytime and 40 dB for the night in residential areas. The main sources of noise pollutionRead MoreThe Unseen Death1110 Words   |  4 Pageshas raised concerns to an environmental degradation. The increasing level of pollution, particularly in the city area causing numerous problems along the way in the past recent years. With level of life expectancy dropped, health defects and an increasing number of mortality rates. The pollution includes air, water, and noise pollution. With vehicle emissions and forest fire being among one of the most to cause air pollution. 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Humans have taken over the resources, homes, and economies that animals need to survive, so they are forced to come closer and closer to humansRead MoreThe Effects Of Environmental Pollution On The Environment1405 Words   |  6 PagesEnvironmental pollution is a major problem in the world, posing many health risks to both humans and the environment when exposed to the pollutants for long periods of time. Environmental pollution can simply be defined as â€Å"the presence in the environment of an agent which is potentially damaging to either the environment or human health (Briggs, 2003, 2).† There are many different types of pollution, such as air pollution, water pollution, and soil pollution. Environmental pollution needs to startRead More The Effects of Noise Pollution Essay1340 Words   |  6 PagesThe Effects of Noise Pollution Have you ever considered that several of the noises you hear are noise pollution? The thought of pollution, to the majority of people, brings reflections of chemical spills, radiation, and holes in the ozone layer, and noise is usually last on the list. The term noise pollution is the term used to describe environmental pollution that deals with annoying or harmful noises and is constantly happening(1). Some common examples of noise pollution, that many peopleRead MoreTransport and the Environment1295 Words   |  6 Pagesaddressing other externalities associated particularly with car use, such as congestion. The environmental impacts of transport â€Å"Transportation services are essential component of economic activity, and are one key to its growth. Transportation has a number of environmental side effects that people dislike. Through the emission of pollutants by cars, lorries, buses, trains, and airplanes; through land-take, for example for new airports and new roads and; increase in noise levels. 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The Parkinsons Disease - 761 Words

Addressing the question of nature vs. nurture, Dr. Sonia Mathur states that â€Å"Genetics loads the gun, environment pulls the trigger† (Mathur). Parkinson’s Disease (PD) exhibits this pattern, with the vast majority of PD cases being idiopathic, likely the result of combined genetic and environmental factors. While many researchers previously sought symptom-specific treatment, recent breakthroughs open the door for the discovery of genetic and environmental causes so that disease prevention, and even reversal, emerge as viable possibilities. Recent research demonstrates that certain types of PD are inevitable regardless of environmental factors, but most forms of the disease result from the compilation of negative environmental stimuli and genetic mutations. The discovery of the PARK-1 gene on chromosome four marked PD’s first known genetic cause (Gwinn). Researchers determined that, while normal cells carry just one copy of the PARK-1 genes, PD patients carried three copies (Gwinn). The PARK-1 genes promote the production of alphasynuclein proteins (Gwinn). These normally harmless proteins cause brain cell death when found in high concentrations. In fact, Lewy bodies composed of alpha-synuclein accumulate and destroy dopaminergic neurons (Gwinn). Interestingly, the genes triggering this accumulation rarely mutate somatically, implying that mutations on the PARK-1 gene are almost always hereditary (Proukakis). Furthermore, the individuals who contract genetic PD in relation toShow MoreRelatedThe Parkinsons Disease1596 Words   |  6 PagesMany people around the world today suffer from Parkinson’s disease and other movement disorders. A movement disorder is a disorder impairing the speed, fluency, quality, and ease of movem ent. There are many types of movement disorders such as impaired fluency and speed of movement (dyskinesia), excessive movements (hyperkinesia), and slurred movements (hypokinesia). 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It is common for patients with PD to have motor symptoms such as gait disorder, which comes from muscle stiffness/rigidity, bradykinesia, postural imbalance, etc. Gait disorders can generally help determine how far the neurological disorder has affected the motor function and control of the individual. Many physicians in general c linics determine if a patient has PD or if it hasRead MoreEssay on Parkinson’s Disease2135 Words   |  9 PagesParkinson’s Disease Parkinson’s disease is a disease with a wide variety of disabilities recognizable as changes in appearance, posture, walking, and balance. In 1817, the English physician James Parkinson described these symptoms in his patients and has had his name become synonymous with the disease. In 1893 the substantia nigra of the basal ganglia was identified as an area of disease for Parkinson’s. Examination with the naked eye reveals a lack of black pigment in this portion of the brainstem

Quaker Meeting free essay sample

My earliest encounter with religion came in a noisy preschool in Texas. There was a picture book with vivid images of Jesus Christ helping poor children, guiding a sick old woman, leading a flock of lambs. Later I associated this gentle bearded man with the Nativity scenes that decorated our neighbors yards at Christmas. I did not understand the significance of this figure, but admired the soft, benign look on his face while also pitying him for his scraggly robes and emaciated frame. I remember believing that Santa Claus was in fact Jesus, just plumper and jollier in old age, spreading his cheer through presents and hearty ho-ho-hos. Never attending church in my early childhood, I thought Christianity was some sort of glamorous club Santa Claus A-List that met weekly in secretive conventions. I was not exposed to Christian doctrine or ritual, but saw only big shiny crosses, exotic Christmas ornaments and white-robed men. I desperately wanted to be part of it all. When my family moved to New Jersey around my fifth birthday, my mother decided to attend a Quaker church. From the beginning, I dreaded Sunday mornings and the long drive to the small, modest meeting house when I would have to sit on hard wood benches surrounded by strange people in awkward silence. I would grow painfully bored, stifled by the thick quiet that permeated the stale room and pass the time counting ceiling tiles or observing these strange people. There were old men and women, eyes closed, wearing dull cardigans; a little boy with long hair; a petite woman with eyes that darted around the room like insects; couples holding hands without speaking. Here was a collection of some of the most liberal, open-minded and accepting individuals, but to me they were strange, odd, different. There was no priest handing out cookies and grape juice, no flamboyant hats and bright sequined dresses on fashionable women, there was not the slightest lingering scent of pricey cologne, or the doleful sound of organ music. There was only stillness broken by the occasional rustle of clothing, a muffled cough, a baby crying. After 20 minutes, the children would be dismissed to another room. Sometimes we would discuss our morals or our understanding of God; sometimes we would take nature walks and collect objects of significance to us; sometimes we would meditate and speak to that elusive voice within. I would participate, but always as an outsider watching the bizarre rituals of a primitive culture. As I reached adolescence, this detachment at Meeting hardened into angry bitterness: the kids were typical middle-school rejects who didnt dress right or act cool, and the adults seemed to be encouraging these crippled nonconformists. I, already struggling with my own insecurities, did not want to be associated with such an eccentric group. When the topic of religion would come up at school, I would cringe, waiting for the inevitable Youre Quaker? Whats that? My teacher, jumping at the chance to exploit diversity, would inevitably ask me to explain Quakers beliefs. I, face growing red and hands clammy, would reply with my re-hearsed, monotone response: Quakers believe in peace. Peace. At the time the word evoked little more than images of white doves in flight, hippies in flowing peasant tops or the two-fingered symbol that the kids would make in group photos. Peace is good; make peace, not war; let the world unite in peace I had been bombarded with cliches, but the actual concept of peace, like the institution of Quakerism, was foreign to me. Not to mention that it was never a satisfactory answer for my class: But do Quakers believe in Jesus? they would ask. Do you churn your own butter? Are you allowed to use electricity? Why arent you wearing a bonnet? And always the smart-aleck from the back of the room, arms crossed, smirking, Dont you worship the Quaker Oats guy? In a small, upper-crust suburb, a hotbed for conventionality and conservatism, I knew that I had been raised in an unorthodox manner and instilled with values that contrasted starkly with my peers. Thus, my religion became increasingly difficult as I found myself isolated because of my singularity of mind, principles and conduct. Frustrated by my differences, I began to believe that somehow associating with the Quaker folk had caused me to contract a horribly contagious disease that frightened others away. Every Sunday though, despite my violent tantrums, I always ended up in the backseat, having been given an ultimatum. Yet curiously, once I was at the Meeting House sitting among these strange people, I was instantly accepted. Even though I was a defiant, rebellious adolescent, here the adults would not tsk-tsk at my low-cut jeans or shake their heads at my attitude. As much as I hated to admit it, this was a safe haven, free from the judgmental and critical mindsets I encountered a t school. Although a difficult, turbulent time in my life, I grew stronger and more confident as a result of the adversity I encountered in school. As I entered high school, I made friends, branched out, widened my social circle. I discovered interests and passions, and began that pivotal journey of self-discovery. Who was I? I found more and more that as I attempted to answer that question the response included Quakerism. I was a Quaker. I began to explore my religious roots, discovering how the Quaker community had encountered persecution for their beliefs, had been mocked for their conscientious objection to war, and had faced oppression throughout their existence. Yet despite immense hardship, Quakers had never attempted to fight fire with fire, instead conquering hate through their persistent love, caring and compassion. These were tenets that I held dear, especially since they were so applicable to my life. I could not attempt to avenge the taunters during middle school with a retaliation of name-calling and dirty looks, but instead I passively resisted, and looked inside for strength. I had finally accepted Quakerism. I believed in peace, the power of forgiveness and the importance of kindness. I became active in peace marches as the war in Iraq wrought bloodshed, and arranged candlelight vigils for the many sacrificed lives. I discovered my empowering ability to make a difference in the world, and for this I am immensely proud of my Quakerism, my avowed pacifism. Quakerism has taught me the value of love, the power of inner strength, but most importantly, it has taught me that sometimes it isnt the fist or the noisy protests that can really effect change; sometimes just being silent is enough.

McDonalds vs. Wendys Essays - Fast Food, Fast Food Restaurant, Meals

Mr. Hooker English 1301-3G1 14 October 2014 McDonalds vs. Wendys There seems to be a fast food restaurant on every corner, which can make it difficult when deciding where to eat. A childhood favorite has always been McDonalds, but when the child becomes an adult, Wendys specializes in catering to him or her. Wendys and McDonalds are both fast food restaurants with many similarities; however, each restaurant possesses characteristics that makes it different. One of the main differences between the two restaurants are their menu options. While McDonalds has a larger amount of menu options, Wendys food is of better quality. After all, Wendys slogan is Quality Is Our Recipe. McDonalds serves breakfast, lunch and dinner, while Wendys, on the other hand, is merely lunch and dinner. Although Wendys does not serve breakfast, it more than makes up for it with its variety of gourmet burgers and sandwiches, a lacking quality of McDonalds menu. Occasionally, McDonalds will add the infamous McRib sandwich to its menu. While Wendys does not have a seasonal item, its square-shaped burger patty is unique in the fast food industry. Also, Wendys variety of sides are a fan favorite. Where McDonalds meals only come with fries as a side option, Wendys customers can choose from fries, baked potato, a bowl of chili or a salad. Similarly, both restaurants offer a value menu for those customers who are on a tight budget. While these items may not be the healthiest, they do satisfy the customers hunger for less. To appeal to the healthier eater, fast food restaurants are continuously updating their menus to meet the demand. Wendys is the more noticeable winner with its vast diversity of specialty salads such as the Asian Cashew Chicken Salad or the Apple Pecan Chicken Salad. In comparison, McDonalds salads can be found at most fast food restaurants, lack visual appeal and are generic at best. Another noticeable difference applies to the beverage menu. McDonalds has a wide variety of beverages which include Coca-Cola products and specialty drinks from its McCaf line. The line offers different flavored lattes, iced coffees, smoothies and other frozen beverages. While Wendys beverage options are not as grand as McDonalds, Wendys loyal customers will always prefer the decadent chocolate or classic vanilla frosty over anything else. While there is no denying the difference between the two fast food restaurants, personal choice will inevitably be the winner. McDonalds has a modern yet simple take on fast food items, whereas Wendys sets the bar high for what to expect from a fast food restaurant.