Friday, March 29, 2013

Computer Radiation: the risks, effects and protection from Electromagnetic radiation

Today, Computers are being used in almost every field. These have become an important part of our lives. There is no doubt that its versatility has not only changed our way of thinking but has also accelerated the rate development many times. But, do you know how risky the computer radiation can be for our eyes, heart and other body organs?

In this article, I have put some efforts to let us know the risks of computer radiation as well as some easy and effective ways to be on a safer side!

What is Computer Radiation?


To make the concept of computer radiations more clear, I would like to introduce you all with Electromagnetic radiation or EM radiations or simply called ‘EMR’. Electromagnetic energy is a term used for describing all the different kinds of energies which are released into space by stars (for example, The Sun). Radio Waves, TV waves, short waves, microwaves, heat (infrared radiation), light, X-rays, Gamma rays, including UV-light that also causes Sunburns comes into Electromagnetic energies. Even a power line, a broadcast tower, or any other electric device including Computer emits a considerable amount of electromagnetic radiation, which in simpler words is known as Computer Radiation. This type of radiation emitted from Computers, TVs and other electrical and electronic devices is also known as Extremely Low Frequency or ELF.

Microwave radiation is another type of dangerous EM radiation found near computers and other electronic devices. These waves are used for providing radio communication between equipment that needs wireless networking, such as computers, printers, scanner, modem, routers and other wireless devices.



Health Effects due to Computer Radiation

It has been known for many years that radiation emitted from computers can cause or contribute to the cause of various health problems which include sleep interference, allergic reactions and even the severe health issues like heart disease, cancer and Alzheimer’s disease etc.

Studies over the last 15 years have given hints of the connection between Electromagnetic Fields (EMF's) and health problems. EMF's have been implicated in behavioral changes, memory loss, birth defects and Alzheimer’s disease.

Mostly, the people do not want to sit on a chair near high voltage power lines, but they do not think twice before sitting on a chair in front of a computer screen, that includes a CPU, a printer, a scanner and perhaps a UPS (Uninterrupted Power Supplier) with it. Working at the same position for hours, they never know that they are absorbing as much radiation as if they could have a high voltage power line.

A computer user, not aware about the choice and placement of devices (Computer assemblies) could be open to an ELF radiation from Computers with a field strength of 3 to 7 millie gauss while microwaves from Wi-Fi devices may carry a field strength of 100 to 200 µW/m2. Individually, these radiations are quite far from safe and may cause very serious health issues if taken together.

Some other serious diseases that may be caused by exposure to EMF radiation include: Cancer, Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, fibromyalgia, heart problems, asthma, Lyme disease, chest pain, insomnia, chronic fatigue, daily headache, high blood pressure, rheumatoid arthritis stress, brain fog, brain cancer, brain tumors, forgetfulness, digestive disorders, birth defects, nausea, leukemia(general), lymphoblastic leukemia, skin problems, weak immune system etc and the list is as long as it can still be continued.

Eye Irritation - Almost everyone who uses to sit in front a computer screen must be familiar with irritation in eyes. Computer screens cause eye strain. Moreover, the electromagnetic radiation also causes dryness and irritation in our eyes. We should intake Vitamin A and C and Omega 3 fatty acids regularly in order to maintain the health and vision of our eyes.

Laptop Radiation: It has been noted that the radiation emitted from Laptop or notebook computers is generally lower than the amount emitted by Desktop computers. One of the main cause behind this is the use of small-sized components, a LED (Light Emitting Diode) or LCD (Liquid Crystal Display). Moreover, the laptops are battery operated plays a major role in lowering the rate of radiation from these portable computers.

Still, we are not safe! The main problem with laptop or notebook is that we remain even closer to it as compared to a Computer, also takes us closer to the radiation being emitted from the device. Generally, people are found using laptops keeping it on their laps/thighs that not only increases the chances of radiation, but can also cause severe burns, or infertility in males due to the heat released from it.

Wi-Fi Radiation, or radiation from wireless networks and routers

WiFi and other wireless networks, routers, modems and other wireless devices are being used widely by school, colleges, IT companies, firms, and individuals. All these wireless equipment emit electromagnetic radiation when they remain in touch with each other. Mainly these are microwaves or radio radiation.

To be said, these wireless devices are not at all safe. It has been scientifically proved that the digital signals added on to the microwave carrier can interfere with our biological processes.

Radiation from other components of Computer 

  • ·         Uninterruptable Power Supply or UPS - A UPS provides backup power for the computers to save the risks of data loss due to power cut issues.  In common conditions, a UPS may produce radiation from 10 millie gauss to 50 millie gauss or more around an area of 20 to 30 cm.

  • ·         Printers and Scanners - Though printers do not radiate a very large amount of radiation but it gets doubled at the time of printing. It is always advisable to keep your printing/scanning devices at a maximum distance from your computer desks.

  • ·         Sub-woofers and Sound systems - Some large sub-woofers and sound systems also produces a shocking amount of radiations even when the speakers are powered but not producing any sound. One may estimate the radiations it may produce while making sounds in high volumes.

  • ·         Wireless Keyboard/Mouse/Mice - Using the wireless keyboard, mouse or any other wireless input/output device increases the production of radiation.

How to receive the least levels of computer radiation?

Generally, it seems impossible to prevent ourselves from the radiations which continuously keep emitting from the device we use for some minutes to several hours. But, still, we may follow some measures to reduce the computer radiation to acceptable levels.

For example, in home or offices, where we have to work for more than 7 to 8 hours a day, some setup can be done to minimize the computer radiation levels to the least:

  • Make sure to use the only LCD or LED monitors.
  • Use corded equipment instead of wireless keyboard/mouse/telephones.
  • Always use a wired network instead of wireless networks.
  • Computers, printers, and scanners should be networked together through wired networks.
  • For Internet connections, always use a wired modem connected to a wired network line.
  • Always try to place printing/scanning devices and UPS at a maximum distance from where you sit.
  • A very effective way to reduce the effects of computer radiation is earthing or grounding. One may ground his/her computer (laptop/desktop) by attaching a wire from a metal component of the computer to the ground terminal of the wall socket. Electricity follows the path of least resistance, hence it will let the computer generated electromagnetic fields through the wire and not from us. One may also ground his/her own body with a grounding met, but it is not much recommended in case of presence of any electrical equipment or water near you.

Some additional yet useful suggestions to receive the least level of Electromagnetic Radiations

  • Turn off the monitor when not in use.
  • Always make sure the back of a computer(CPU) is not pointing at you or someone else. It has worst effects.
  • Keep the computers, printers, scanners turned off when you are not using them.
  • Drink water frequently whenever while working on computers for a longer time.
  • Avoid taking jobs or living in places where Electromagnetic field exposure can be very high.
  • A strong electromagnetic field radiation may cause you cancer in just 3 days. So always maintain possible distances from EM exposures.
  • Grow a habit of washing your face after every long meeting with your computer screen, it helps in removes the radiation settled on our face.
  • Some people have even found that using a facial mask before sitting in front of a computer may help to cut their exposure to EMF radiation.
  • Scientifically, it has been proved that some cactus plants have the ability to absorb the EMF radiation coming from electronic devices like a computer.
  • Make a habit of having antioxidants like tea or coffee during break periods.
  • Take healthy food such as green vegetables, tomatoes, apples, broccoli, carrots, cherries which has significant amounts of Vitamin A and C which are considered good for our eyes as well as in keeping our body healthy and safe from the risks of computer radiation.

So friends, by following some simple measures you can be able to save you and others from various health risks. As you have been introduced to most of the health issues and remedies from computer radiations, now arrange your own computer desks and workplaces and keep your computer healthy and safe!

 “Many receive advice, only the wise profit from it!




(If you have any queries/problems or suggestions related to the post "Computer Radiation: the risks, effects and protection from Electromagnetic radiation", you're most welcome in comments..!) :)

Wednesday, March 27, 2013

The Introverts and Extroverts: Introduction, Definitions and their nature as per psychology

Who are Introverts?

Introverts get energized by being alone, and their energy is drained as they are around other people. And they tend to be better observers.

 

Do you ever get confused about whether you're an introvert or an extrovert? Discover your true self today!
 

Most people have a misunderstanding that introverts are those who are shy-natured, which is a completely wrong perception. It has very little to do with being an introvert. Shyness and ‘introversion’ are completely unrelated to each other. The introverts choose to be alone as they enjoy thinking, imagining, and exploring their thoughts and feeling inside their brain only.

 

Introverts are more concerned with the world inside their minds. They often try to avoid social encounters and being in a crowd, as it drains their energy. They need some or more time to ‘recharge’ themselves after being with people, at parties, in traffic, or anywhere else.

 

When introverts choose to be alone, it should not be considered a sign of depression. It simply means that they either need some time to regain their energy which had been lost while being around people, or they want to be alone to give some time to their thoughts and inner-self.

 

According to some past surveys, Introverts makeup about 60% of the gifted population but only about 25 to 40% of the general population.

 

Who are Extroverts?

Extroverts are people just opposite introverts. Extroverts get energized by being around people and are drained when being alone.

 

Generally, extroverts are friendly by nature and also like outings. They feel boredom when they are alone. Extroverts usually think best when they are speaking what they are thinking. They are social and enjoy the company of friends and people around them.

 

They can make talks smaller, while introverts often feel it difficult to present small talk while talking with people they do not know.

The researchers state that extroverts make up about 50 to 75 % of the net population.

 

The Introverts and Extroverts: Introduction, Definitions and their nature as per psychology

 

Things that Extroverts should know about Introverts -

  • Introverts do not need to be alone as they don’t like anyone’s company, but they need alone time because they need to be alone. One should never take it personally as ignorance.
  •  Introverts are like observers, but it doesn’t mean they are judging someone. (observing is a part of their nature)
  •  If they are sitting quietly while being with a whole group, it doesn’t mean that they are uninterested in the topics being discussed.
  • If they say they are happy and enjoying, then they are happy and enjoying the moment. It is not generally required in their cases that they will exhibit or show their enjoyment and interest at the physical level.
  • If we are said to meet or have a conference with several people, we prefer talking over the phone, text or a social network, instead of going face-to-face.
  • Introverts tend to be very calm and cut off from the outside world. They never fight to hear of the people, though they may have a bad temper if their thoughts are forcibly bent or influenced or if applied a false charge on them.
  • They do not feel boredom when they are lonely. It is the best time for them to get into a different world of imagination inter-weaved with the real world.
  • Introverts are capable of showing themselves as Extroverts before people.
  • They prefer writing instead of speaking to present their thoughts more effectively and clearly.
  • Introverts prefer quiet for concentration.
  • They may face trouble while communicating.
  • They need to understand the exact cause behind doing something.
  • They need to be asked for their ideas and opinions.
  •  They may know much more than what they reveal or talk about.
  •  They need to think and reflect on their thoughts before talking or doing anything.
  • They may feel trouble remembering the face and names of people.
  • They are capable of working well if given little supervision. They don’t like to go out and socialize with people.
  •  They prefer to live inside their room, house etc only.
  • They work better when they are alone.
  •  They feel most relaxed being quiet and alone.
  • They may carry a caring nature, though they do not generally reveal it.
  • They feel jailed when someone else’s thoughts are forced on them.

 

Things that Introverts should know about Extroverts -

  • Extroverts do not understand introversion and introverts unless they are explained.
  • They are unable to read minds and less capable of catching hints.
  •  During a party or function, they may pull you inside the heavy crowd, but sure you may need to sail and float thereby on your own only.
  • Sometimes, the comment from an Extrovert feels like attacking introverts, though they do not mean it. They only say it for the sake of wellness and betterment.
  • They are good at making small talk and may be helpful to Introverts to learn this art.
  • Extroverts prefer energetic, fast and upbeat music to introverts.
  • They may even put some extra chairs in their home or office, for the sake of attracting more co-workers to come and work together.
  • Are good in making the communication.
  • Like to socialize with their friends, colleagues, co-workers and everyone.
  • They make ideas and thoughts during a discussion or while thinking as they speak.
  •  Are attracted towards other Extroverts.
  • Speak even when they are thinking.
  • Extroverts may be defined as ‘social butterflies’.
  • May lose patience and feel boredom when they are alone or made to work slowly and repetitively.
  • Extroverts usually produce a lot of words in quantity, though it lacks quality.
  •  Enjoy making phone calls, and socializing.
  • They like to go with the majority opinion on any topic.

Introvert V/s Extroverts

Extroverts and introverts have a lot of behavioural and mental differences. Some studies have also shown that Introverts and Extroverts were successfully identified and grouped separately by noticing their external behaviour as well as the movement taking place in their brains. It will not be wrong to say that Introverts and Extroverts have different types of brains.

 

Introvert, Extrovert or an Ambivert. Find out which one you are! Uncover Your True Nature Now!
 

The setup and wiring of their brains are completely different. In introverts, the front part of their brain is found to be more active, whereas an Extrovert’s brain is found more active in its back part. Extroverts charge in socializing and being around people, whereas, introverts get energised being alone.

Who are found to be happier in their lives among Extroverts and Introverts?

It has not been made much clear yet, but most of the past tests and research show that Extroverts remain happier than Introverts in their lives. However, most of these tests and research are done based on social activities and interaction with the outside world and its people etc.

Which type is found to be the most successful out of Extroverts and Introverts?

Generally, when an introvert comes into interaction with an extrovert, the introvert may see the extrovert as a boss and overbearing, while an extrovert may look at an introvert as a shy-natured person, though shy has little to do with introversion. The main difference between introverts and shy people is that shy people avoid social interaction out of fear, shyness or criticism/rejection phobia, whereas an introvert avoids social interaction just for the sake of being alone.

 

There have been many examples where Extroverts and Introverts have managed to work better as a team. For example, Steve Jobs(an extrovert), and Steve Wozniak(an introvert) teamed together and founded Apple Inc.

 

Why are some people Introverted and others Extrovert?

Some past theories have proved that defining the genetic traits of introverts and extroverts depends on the presence and sensitivity of dopamine chemicals in the brain. Dopamine is simply known as a feel-good chemical that is produced by the brain.

 

The over-sensitivity to dopamine results in introversion, whereas extroversion may be caused due to insensitivity to dopamine in the brain. The over-sensitivity of introverts to dopamine does not mean that they are unable to feel and appreciate excitement. But it does mean that introverts want to withdraw and let the dopamine levels subside before returning to stimulating activity at this time. It is due to the cause that introverts can be easily over-stimulated by the production of too much dopamine.

 

A few types of research also claim the connection between over-sensitivity to dopamine and anorexia; and the connection between insensitivity to dopamine and obesity.

 

Anorexia’ or ‘Anorexia Nervosa’ is an eating disorder that is characterized by immoderate food restriction an irrational fear of gaining weight, and also a distorted body self-perception. It even involves excessive weight loss mostly in females.

Symptoms of Anorexia nervosa:

Its symptoms may include headaches, weakness, dizziness etc.

 

'Obesity' is another kind of situation, in which excess fat gets accumulated in the body, to an extent that it may have various adverse effects on health.

 

But, the over-sensitivity or insensitivity to dopamine has not been said to be exactly Anorexia or Obesity, but only partially related to them.

 

Introverts, Extroverts, and the Genetics

Past studies have found that the wiring of the brains of introverts and extroverts is different. In other words, the blood flows through different paths in the brains of introverts and extroverts. These dissimilarities appear to be genetic, rather than acquired traits.

 

A gene named as ‘D4DR gene’ in our DNA affects the neurotransmitter dopamine (or the feel-good chemical produced by the brain), which controls the excitement levels of a person, and is vital for physical activities, appreciation, and motivation. A long D4DR gene results in less sensitivity/insensitivity to dopamine in the brain, whereas a short D4DR gene is responsible for high sensitivity/oversensitivity to dopamine. Hence, a long D4DR gene is responsible for extroversion while a short D4DR gene is for introversion.

 

Introverts have slower thinking, as compared to Extroverts

Introverts are found to be slow thinkers as they have slower memory recalling than extroverts. The brain of an Introvert takes a longer path in the thinking process. But, in extroverts’ brains, this path is much shorter, which makes them reach it more quickly than introverts.

 

 


Related articles -

Breaking the Ice: A Guide to Networking for Shy Individuals

Debunking the Myths: The Truth About Introversion, Shyness, and Social Anxiety Disorder


 

(If you have any queries/problems or suggestions related to the post "The Introverts and Extroverts: Introduction, Definitions and their nature as per psychology", you're most welcome in comments..!) :)