Explainer: Climate Change and Carbon Dioxide

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What If Clinton Were a Man, Trump Were a Woman?

After Hillary Clinton lost the presidency to Donald Trump, some wondered how many voters were unwilling to elect a woman for president. Now, a New York show is helping to provide some answers. It is recreating important moments from the three Trump-Clinton presidential debates, but with a big difference. A female actor plays Trump and a male actor plays Clinton. The show is called: “Her Opponent.” Do the gender changes make a difference? People who have seen the show say yes. But surprisingly, many who speak out in the discussion that follows each show say Trump comes across in the show more sympathetic as a woman and Clinton less so as a man. Christine Ostrosky, 22, is a senior at Miami University in Ohio. She watched a performance of “Her Opponent” online. When she watched the “real” debates, she said, “It was obvious to me” that Clinton had more charisma, and was clearly the more qualified debater.” But after watching the Trump and Clinton actors perform the debate lines, Ostrosky said she could understand better the appeal Trump had with some women voters. Among the debate moments acted out in “Her Opponent,” is this one over Clinton's experience.  Let’s listen to the real Trump and Clinton in the presidential debate: Clinton: So I know how to really work to get new jobs and to get exports that help to create more new jobs. Trump: But you haven't done it in 30 years or 26 years or any number you want to... Clinton: Well, I've been a senator, Donald... Trump: You haven't done it. You haven't done it. Clinton: And I have been a secretary of state. Now, let’s listen to the rehearsal of the actors playing Trump and Clinton in “Her Opponent:” Clinton: So I know how to really work to get new jobs and to get exports that help to create more new jobs. Trump: But you haven't done it in 30 years or 26 years or any number you want to... Clinton: Well, I've been a senator, Donald... Trump: You haven't done it. You haven't done it. Clinton: And I have been a secretary of state. The show’s creators are Joe Salvatore, a playwright and New York University theater professor and Maria Guadalupe, who teaches political science and economics at Insead, a graduate business school in France. Guadalupe said: “One sees that, when performed by a man, Clinton was behaving within a very female script (smiling, nodding while she was being attacked) and that was not appealing and looked weak.” But Trump, performed by a woman, “looked less aggressive and more truthful, passionate,” Guadalupe said. Salvatore said it was not so much that Clinton supporters became Trump supporters after watching “Her Opponent.” But audience members say they now know “why Trump won,” he said. Salvatore said the experience of putting together “Her Opponent” has left him ready to offer advice to candidates. A candidate might learn a lot by watching how an actor would act out their words, complete with facial expressions and hand motions, Salvatore said. “I think that we spend a lot of time in analysis talking about what people said and I don’t think that we spend enough time in analysis talking about how people said it.” It is not only word choice, but how a person delivers his or her message, Salvatore said. “I think this difference between Clinton offering so many facts and figures, almost to the point of it being dizzying in some moments in the debates, vs. Trump saying kind of short, quick, repeatable things over and over again, even if they are not necessarily accurate. The message lands more strongly and clearly.” This kind of show is called ‘documentary theater’ A show in which the actors repeat the same words said earlier by other people is not new. Some call it “documentary theater.” According to Drama Online, this type of show dates back to the 1920s. The aims of documentary theater are to reassess history and to investigate major events. I'm Dorothy Gundy. And I'm Bruce Alpert.   Bruce Alpert reported on this story. Dorothy Gundy produced the video. Hai Do was the editor. We want to hear from you. Write to us in the Comments Section and share your views on our Facebook Page. Are your views of a person affected by their gender? Explain. _______________________________________________________________ Words in This Story   gender - n. the state of being male or female obvious - adj. easy to see or notice charisma - n. a special charm or appeal that causes people to feel attracted and excited by someone qualified - adj. having the necessary skill, experience, or knowledge to do a particular job or activity script - n. the written form of a play, movie, television show nod - v. to move your head up and down as a way of answering “yes” or of showing agreement passionate - adj. having, showing, or expressing strong emotions or beliefs analyze - v. to study something closely and carefully dizzying - adj. causing or likely to cause dizziness accurate - adj. free from mistakes or errors reassess - v. to reconsider a judgement about someone or something  

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Potatoes Could Be Grown on Mars

In the 2015 film “The Martian,” Matt Damon’s character is a scientist left behind on Mars. He has limited food supplies and not much water. He tries to figure out how to survive so he can be rescued. Luckily, he knows how to grow things. And one of the things he grows is a potato plant. A year later, scientists in Peru and NASA scientists in California started working together on growing potatoes in a harsh location similar to Mars. They built a container where they could simulate the conditions on Mars. The salty soil came from the southern coast of Peru, where there is very little rain. Inside the “Mars-in-a-box,” the scientists made the air pressure similar to what it is like at 6,000-meters, decreased the temperature below zero, and added carbon monoxide to the air. They made a lighting system that followed Mars’ daytime and nighttime. They planted 65 types of potato plants, and waited. After a while, four of them grew. Later, the scientists took the strongest of the four plants and tried again. This time, they used crushed rocks instead of soil. The plant still grew. Why is the research being done in Peru? You may not know that Peru is known as the birthplace of potato farming. People grew potatoes there about 7,000 years ago. Even in cold, barren parts of Peru, Ecuador and Bolivia, potatoes still grow. There is also a potato research center, called the International Potato Center, in the capital city, Lima. The surviving potato in the Mars-in-a box is known as Unique. It can still grow in freezing climates with high amounts of carbon dioxide. The research is not only for a trip to Mars one day. It is going to help feed people in parts of the world that are already having trouble planting traditional crops due to climate change. The work is not yet done. The scientists in Peru and California will try to grow more plants in even more difficult conditions. I’m Dan Friedell.   Dan Friedell adapted this story for Learning English based on an Associated Press report. Hai Do was the editor. Will we one day grow potatoes on Mars? We want to know. Write to us in the Comments Section or on our Facebook page. ______________________________________________________________ Words in This Story   character - n. a person who appears in a story, plkay or movie simulate - v. look feel or behave like (something) carbon monoxide - n. a poisonous gas that is formed when carbon is not completely burned barren - adj. not suitable for plants  

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Flooding, Landslides Kill More Than 260 in Colombia

Families and rescuers searched Sunday for victims of flooding and landslides in southern Colombia. The destruction has killed more than 260 people, Reuters reported. More than 40 children are among the dead, President Juan Manuel Santos has confirmed. Many of the bodies are now breaking down, Reuters reported Monday. Bodies wrapped in white cloth lay on the floor of the morgue. Officials are attempting to bury them as soon as possible to avoid the spread of disease. The government will begin vaccination against infectious disease Monday. In addition, hundreds have been injured, and entire neighborhoods have been devastated. Water from a number of rivers flowed over land near Mocoa in the early hours Saturday. The flooding sent water, wet soil and debris crashing down streets and into houses as people slept. Volunteers and emergency fire workers attended to 82 bodies in Villagarzon, the town where the river had carried the bodies. The workers said many dead bodies were still trapped in the debris.   Jhon Ever Calderon is the mayor of Villagarzon. He told Reuters that people have had to go find the bodies. What was worse, he explained, is that the town had no coffins or a clean place to put them.  Many families in Mocoa stayed awake through the night to search the debris, despite the lack of electricity, Reuters noted. “I need to know where they are, if they are injured or where to find them,” Maria Lilla Tisoy cried. She was searching the debris for a 4-year-old granddaughter and two of her daughters, one who is pregnant. “If they are dead, please God deliver them to me,” she said. President Santos traveled to the town of Mocoa again Sunday to supervise operations. “We will continue to search for survivors. And, the first thing I want to say is that my heart, our hearts and the hearts of all Colombians are with the victims of the tragedy,” he said. Santos blamed climate change for the disaster, saying Mocoa had received one-third of its usual monthly rain in just one night. Others said the cutting of forests in surrounding mountains mean few trees can prevent water from washing over the land. Disaster officials said more than 500 people were staying in emergency housing. And, social services had helped 10 lost children find their parents. The destruction came after days of extremely heavy rains. Large parts of the area are now without electrical power or running water. Pope Francis spoke of the disaster Sunday at the Vatican, saying he was deeply saddened. In Colombia, heavy rains, mountains, and informal construction make landslides common events. However, the intensity of the Mocoa disaster was alarming compared to incidents in recent years. In 2015, for example, a landslide killed nearly 100 people. President Santos urged Colombians to take protective measures against the flooding and continuing rains. He thanked China for donating $1 million in aid. He also thanked the Inter-American Development Bank for its $200,000 donation toward aid efforts. Santos also expressed appreciation to Germany and Belgium, which are also donating aid. In recent months, heavy rains and flooding have hit the Pacific coast of South America hard. The floods have killed many people in Peru and Ecuador. I’m Alice Bryant.   Reuters News Service and VOA News reported this story. Alice Bryant adapted it for Learning English. Kelly Jean Kelly was the editor. We want to hear from you. Write to us in the Comments Section. __________________________________________________________________ Words in This Story   landslide - n. a large mass of rocks and earth that suddenly and quickly moves down the side of a mountain or hill morgue - n. a place where the bodies of dead people are kept until they are buried or cremated debris - n. the pieces that are left after something has been destroyed coffin - n. a box in which a dead person is buried climate change - n. a change in global climate patterns caused by an increase in carbon dioxide resulting from the use of fossil fuels, such as coal and natural gas

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Deadly Bombing on St. Petersburg Subway

An explosion Monday on a subway train in St. Petersburg, Russia, killed at least 10 and injured dozens more. The attack happened as Russian President Vladimir Putin was in the city to meet with President Alexander Lukashenko of Belarus. The explosion hit the subway train as it traveled between stations. The train’s driver chose to continue on to the next station, Technology Institute. That might have saved lives. By moving the train to the next station the driver made it easier to remove injured passengers, said an official with Russia’s Investigative Committee. It also took away the possibility of injury, or even death, if passengers were to have walked along the subway system’s electrified tracks, the official said. Russian officials later found and disabled another bomb at the city’s Vosstaniya station. Searching for suspects Russian news media reported that police are searching for two men recorded on subway cameras. Russian state television showed a photo of one possible suspect wearing what appeared to be the kind of hat common in mostly Muslim areas of the former Soviet Union. ​President Vladimir Putin said investigators are looking at all possibilities for the attack, including terrorism. "The reasons are yet unclear so it’s early to talk about them. The investigation will tell,” he said. Appearing on Russian television, Putin offered his condolences to the relatives of those killed and injured in the blast. In Washington, U.S. President Donald Trump called the St. Petersburg bombing “a terrible thing.” Scene in St. Petersburg All subway stations in St. Petersburg were shut down after the attack. It left many people looking for a way to get home after finishing their jobs Monday afternoon. More than two million riders use the subway system each workday in St. Petersburg, Russia’s second largest city. Video and photos showed injured people on the ground, bleeding on the platform at the Technology Institute station. A big hole could be seen in the side of what appeared to be the train’s third car. Some people ran past clouds of smoke, some shouted and others held their hands to their faces, Reuters reported. St Petersburg resident Leonid Chaika told Reuters, “I saw a lot of smoke, a crowd making its way to the escalators, people with blood and other people's insides on their clothes, bloody faces. Many were crying." Previous attacks In past years, Islamic militants, connected to Chechnya and other Caucasus republics, have targeted trains and planes in Russia. In October 2015, Islamic State militants downed a Russian airliner leaving from an Egyptian resort city, killing all 224 people on board. Chechen terrorists were blamed for previous subway attacks in Moscow, killing 40 people in 2010 and nearly 50 in 2004. The same terrorist group also claimed responsibility for suicide bombings at the Moscow airport, killing 37 people in 2011 and 90 people in 2004. I'm Ashley Thompson.   Bruce Alpert adapted this story for VOA Learning English based on reports by Daniel Schearf of VOA News, the Associated Press, Reuters and other sources. Hai Do was the editor. We want to hear from you. Write to us in the Comments Section and share your views on our Facebook Page. ______________________________________________________________ Words in This Story   subway - n. a train that operates mostly underground tracks - n. a pair of metal bars that a train, trolley, or subway car rides along suspect - n. a person believed by police to be involved with a crime condolence - n. expressions of sympathy for the death of a relative or loved one escalator - n. a moving set of stairs that carries people up or down from one level of a building or station to another resort - n. a place where people go for vacations

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A Little Exercise Is Better Than None

  From VOA Learning English, this is the Health & Lifestyle report. Exercise is good for us. It reduces the risks of dying from all causes, including cancer and heart disease. This is according to the World Health Organization. But many people who work all week have little time for exercise. So, they might try to do something to increase their heart rates over the weekend – go for a long run, take a bike ride, hike in the mountains or do a strenuous chore around the house, such as raking leaves, shoveling snow or digging a garden. We sometimes call people who exercise only on Saturdays and Sundays “weekend warriors.” But is it healthy to avoid exercise during the work-week and then try to fit it all in during the weekend? A new study suggests that, yes, it is healthy: Even weekend warriors may reduce their risk of cancer and cardiovascular disease.  Benefits of being a weekend warrior Australian researchers at the University of Sydney conducted the study. It took place over a nine-year period. During that time, the researchers looked at the self-reported exercise habits and health examinations of more than 63,000 adults in England and Scotland. Then they connected that information to mortality – or, death – records. The researchers found that people who exercised only one or two days a week improved their chances of living longer than people who did not exercise at all. Even those who are very overweight – or, obese – could extend their lives by exercising a couple of days per week. Exercises included playing sports and taking a brisk walk. First, let’s look at cancer. When compared to those who did not exercise at all, weekend warriors had an 18 percent lower risk of dying from cancer. As for cardiovascular disease, weekend warriors had a 40 percent lower risk of cardiovascular disease than inactive people, or so-called "couch potatoes." Couch potatoes are people who don’t exercise. They simply sit all day like, well, like potatoes. Emmanuel Stamatakis is the senior author of the study. He says that he found it "very encouraging" that even people who exercised as little as one or two times a week appear to lower their risk of early death. In other words, their health improves even if they don't meet the suggested weekly amount of physical activity. However, to be in the best health, Stamatakis says, more exercise is better. The WHO suggests that the average adult get at least 150 minutes of moderate to intense activity per week. For the best results, the organization suggests 75 minutes per week of vigorous physical activity. However, if you are busy with work and family duties, exercise as much as you can. Research seems to show that even a little is definitely better than none at all. The researchers published their findings in the journal JAMA (JAM-ah) Internal Medicine. And that’s the Health & Lifestyle report. I’m Anna Matteo.   Jessica Berman reported this story for VOA News. Anna Matteo adapted it for Learning English. Kelly Jean Kelly was the editor. ____________________________________________________________ Words in This Story   strenuous ­– adj. requiring or showing great energy and effort mortality ­– n. the quality or state of being a person or thing that is alive and therefore certain to die : the quality or state of being mortal obese ­– adj. very fat : fat in a way that is unhealthy brisk ­– adj. done with quickness and energy specifically – adv. in a definite and exact way moderate­ – adj. average in size or amount : neither too much nor too little intense ­– adj. done with or showing great energy, enthusiasm, or effort vigorous ­– adj. done with great force and energy ____________________________________________________________ Now, test your understanding of this story with this short quiz!  

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April 3, 2017

A look at the best news photos from around the world.

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Asia Arms Race Heats Up Over South China Sea

As China expands its influence in the disputed South China Sea, an arms race has developed among other nations with claims in the area. China claims most of the 3.5 million-square-kilometer South China Sea as its territory. Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan and Vietnam also have claims in the waterway. The sea is rich in fisheries and is thought to hold valuable resources such as oil and natural gas. Since 2010, China has stepped up its military activities in the South China Sea. It has patrolled with coast guard ships and sent its aircraft carrier, the Liaoning, to carry out military drills. China has also deployed oil rigs and created artificial islands in the disputed sea. Satellite images appear to show the country has also constructed major military facilities on some of the islands. Beijing has defended its activities in the South China Sea. Security experts believe Chinese navy and coast guard expansion will continue. According to a report by global defense publication IHS Jane’s Defense Weekly, China’s defense budget is estimated to nearly double in 2020 from 2010 levels. The report said that by 2020, China’s military budget is expected to reach $233 billion. This expansion has caused other countries in the region to build up arms to be able to counter possible Chinese threats. Zack Cooper is with the Center for Strategic and International Studies, or CSIS, a research group based in Washington, D.C. “Just to keep pace with that Chinese military modernization effort would require tremendous efforts by some of the South China Sea claimant states.” Overall, defense spending among other states surrounding the South China Sea is estimated to reach $250 billion by 2020, according to Jane’s. Upgrading arms capability to counter China In Malaysia, officials announced last November that the Royal Malaysian Navy plans to replace 50 aging vessels to protect its waters from regional threats. There have already been incidents involving Chinese ships entering Malaysian territorial waters. Malaysian officials have said the new littoral mission ships can also be used for anti-terrorism operations. Littoral mission ships are smaller vessels designed for conflicts happening closer to shores. Cooper said it is interesting to note that the first of Malaysia’s new ships will actually be coming from China – the very nation the country could use the vessels against in possible conflicts. “I think this is highly problematic when you have a country that is worried about activities by another state, and they then go ahead and buy arms from that state. You have some worries about whether major platforms are going to work. That should still be a serious concern I think for Malaysian policymakers.” One South China Sea claimant with a large incentive to upgrade its military capabilities is Vietnam, according to Cooper. “The Chinese efforts to reclaim land, at the seven features in the Spratlys, directly threaten a large number of Vietnamese-held features. Plus, the ongoing dispute over resource exploitation near the Paracels is a huge concern for Vietnam.” Vietnam, along with other regional nations, is looking to cut defense costs and spend less on the military equipment it needs. This reportedly led Hanoi to consider buying surface-to-air missiles from India, which is looking to become a future world player in military exports. However, most military experts believe it will take years for India to become a large-scale global provider of high-end military equipment. Nations expected to provide new weapons to South China Sea claimants include Japan, South Korea and Australia. Japan was the country of choice for the Philippines in a deal to lease two TC-90 training aircraft to support its maritime defense forces. The agreement is notable because it is the first transfer of equipment from Japan’s Self-Defense Forces to another country. The two planes, which reportedly recently arrived in the Philippines, are to be used in surveillance and patrol activities in the South China Sea. Nuclear threat from North Korea Another driver of the arms race across Asia is the North Korean nuclear dispute. North Korea has angered its neighbors and much of the world by carrying out a number of recent missile tests. American forces have already begun deploying the THAAD anti-missile system to South Korea. But Cooper says if North Korea continues its current path of fast missile and nuclear development, Japan and South Korea may eventually find the need to respond militarily. “In Japan, you might see some more forceful responses. There’s been a growing debate about strike capability in Japan – basically developing capabilities that would give Japan the ability to respond to a North Korean missile attack. And this is a big change in Japanese defense posture, so it’s something that folks should watch closely.” If approved, the government change would be historic in allowing Japan to strike overseas targets for the first time since World War II. Japan’s ruling party has also urged Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's government to take steps to obtain its own missiles to counter North Korean threats. This would also be a big change for Japan, which in the past has heavily relied on its close ally the United States to protect it. But President Donald Trump has been critical of too much overseas military funding and even threatened to pull U.S. troops out of Japan if Tokyo does not agree to pay more of the costs.    I’m Bryan Lynn.   Bryan Lynn wrote this story for VOA Learning English, based on reports from VOA News, the Associated Press, Reuters and other sources. Hai Do was the editor. We want to hear from you. Write to us in the Comments section, and visit our Facebook page. ________________________________________________________________ Words in This Story   littoral – adj. relating to something on or near a shore incentive – n. something that encourages a person to do something exploitation – n. using someone or something in an unfair way maritime – adj. of or related to the sea surveillance – n. act of watching people or activities, especially by police of official agencies posture – n. attitude or feeling a person or group has about a subject  

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Andrew Jackson: Love Him or Hate Him?

VOA Learning English presents America’s Presidents. Andrew Jackson, the seventh president, was unlike the earlier U.S. presidents. His family was poor, he had little education, and he lived on what was then the western part of the country. Jackson became nationally known in the early 1800s – first as a fighter against Native American tribes, and then as a general in the War of 1812 against the British.  His image as a military hero and man of the people made him a popular choice for the presidency. But critics said Jackson did not accept any limits on his power. He is also remembered for supporting slavery, and for forcing Native Americans from their homes.  Wild child Andrew Jackson’s parents were immigrants from Ireland. His father died in an accident before Andrew, the third and youngest son, was born. When the American colonies entered a war of independence, Andrew and his two brothers fought against the British – although Andrew was too young to be a regular soldier. Andrew’s oldest brother soon died. Then Andrew and his other brother were both captured by British soldiers. One cut Andrew’s face, leaving a scar that remained his entire life. But Andrew, unlike his brother, survived captivity.  A short time later, Andrew’s mother became sick and died. By age 15, Andrew Jackson had no living immediate family. He had already stopped attending school, but taught himself enough to become a lawyer. He moved to what became Nashville, Tennessee, where he developed a successful law career. In time, he bought land and slaves. Jackson was tall and thin, with red hair and bright blue eyes. Sometimes Jackson was playful. He loved to dance, hold parties, and play games where he could win money. Sometimes he was violent. He was known for getting angry easily. Jackson fought duels with several men. In one, he killed a man who insulted his wife. Yet many people liked Jackson’s passionate, action-first personality. By the time the United States entered the War of 1812, Jackson had been a congressman, senator, and judge. Three nicknames Jackson did not have any officially recognized military training. But during the War of 1812, he volunteered in the Tennessee militia and quickly took control of troops. Many of his soldiers came to respect him. Jackson refused to give up, even when the government ordered the militia to disband. And, when some of the men wanted to leave, he threatened them with a gun. Because he was uncompromising and strong as a tree, soldiers called Jackson “Old Hickory.” A group of Creek Indians gave him another name. After he defeated them in battle, Jackson negotiated a treaty that punished both his Native American enemies and his Native American allies. The treaty was more severe than the U.S. government had asked. In time, it forced the Creeks – as well as several other tribes – off their land. The move was popular with many white settlers. It was less popular with the Creeks, who called Jackson “Sharp Knife.”   His best-known military operation was in New Orleans, Louisiana. A large, experienced army of British soldiers moved to attack. Jackson defended the city with a small group of untrained soldiers. His group included volunteers, free blacks, Creoles, Native Americans, and pirates. Jackson’s ragtag troops not only defeated the British force, but suffered only a few losses. Jackson didn't know that the battle came after the British and Americans had already agreed to end the war. But his victory there gave many Americans a feeling of pride. It also made Jackson famous. He became known across the country as the “Hero of New Orleans.”  A man of the people Voters across the country supported Jackson, too. He was especially well-liked in the South and West. Many Americans saw him as a man of the people. They believed his success came from experience and hard work, not wealth and family connections.   In the presidential election of 1824, Jackson received more popular and electoral votes than any of the other candidates. But, because no candidate had a majority, lawmakers in the House of Representatives decided the election. Those lawmakers chose John Quincy Adams, the son of former president John Adams. They were persuaded, in part, because a leader in Congress, named Henry Clay, said Jackson did not have the temperament to be president. Immediately after Quincy Adams won, he appointed Clay secretary of state. The appointment angered Jackson. He believed Adams and Clay had entered into a “corrupt bargain.” In the next presidential election four years later, Jackson defeated Quincy Adams in a landslide. And in the presidential election after that, he crushed Henry Clay.  A powerful president Jackson wanted to be a powerful leader who controlled a limited federal government. But he wanted that government to have power over state governments. For example, Jackson refused to let the state of South Carolina nullify, or ignore, a federal law that state officials opposed. Jackson said if they failed to obey the law, he would consider them traitors and send in troops.   In time, South Carolina and Congress were able to reach a compromise on the law. Jackson also refused to extend the charter of the National Bank. He believed the bank helped industrialists and businesses more than farmers and settlers. His move was popular with many voters – especially farmers and settlers. But Jackson’s opponents warned against the bank veto. They disagreed with his economic plan, and they objected to how he had operated outside of Congress. Senators censured Jackson for acting as if he did not have to follow the law. Jackson’s supporters fought back. They removed the official criticism from the Senate records. Indian Removal Act of 1830 Jackson vetoed more bills than the first six presidents combined. He actively worked for only one major law: the Indian Removal Act of 1830. Jackson believed Native Americans occupied land that should belong to white settlers. He also thought Native Americans would be destroyed or lose their culture to white people anyway. So he offered several tribes what appeared to be generous treaties to move onto land west of the Mississippi River. But the treaties were often unfair or illegal. The tribes who accepted rarely received the benefits Jackson promised them. And some tribes, such as the Cherokees, simply refused to go. Empowered by Jackson’s Indian Removal Act, U.S. government officials eventually forced 15,000 Cherokees off their land. They were made to march over 1,600 kilometers. About 4,000 died on the march. It is remembered as the “Trail of Tears.” For white settlers, Jackson’s Indian removal policies resulted in over 100,000 square kilometers of new land to farm. Thousands of cotton planters moved west with their enslaved workers. The Indian Removal Act served not only to aid an economic boom in cotton, but to spread slavery further in the United States. Jackson had no objections. Final years In 1837, Jackson officially moved out of the White House – but he did not really leave the presidency. He advised the presidents who followed him from his home in Tennessee. Jackson had particular influence over two future leaders: Martin Van Buren, his former vice president; and James Polk, who shared Jackson’s beliefs so closely that he was called “Young Hickory.” Jackson’s beloved wife, Rachel, had died before he took office. They did not have any children together, but they raised two boys: a Native American orphan who died as a teenager; and a nephew, whom they called Andrew Jackson, Jr. The younger Andrew Jackson and his wife lived with the former president in his final years. He died in his bed at 78 of old wounds and old age. But his legacy remains very much alive. Legacy Jackson changed the U.S. presidency. After him, presidential candidates had to show they could connect with voters, not just lawmakers. He also increased the power of the chief executive. Jackson often questioned – or dismissed – the power of Congress, the Constitution, and the Supreme Court. And, he began the custom of replacing experienced government officials with people whose main qualification was their loyalty to him. Critics added to Jackson’s nicknames. They called him King Andrew, King Mob, or American Cesar. The opposition to Jackson led to a new political party called the Whigs. Part of Jackson's legacy is the two major party system that exists in the U.S. today. But those who loved Jackson really loved him. His humble beginnings, rise to power, and defense of the common man inspired them. In the U.S., the name of Andrew Jackson is still often used as a positive symbol of American democracy. I’m Kelly Jean Kelly. _________________________________________________________________ Words in This Story   man of the people - n. a politician who understands and is liked by ordinary people pride - n. a feeling that you respect yourself and deserve to be respected by other people temperament - n. the usual attitude, mood, or behavior of a person nullify - v. to make something legally null charter - n. a document issued by a government that gives rights to a person or group generous - adj. providing more than the amount that is needed or normal : abundant or ample legacy - n. something that comes from someone in the past chief executive - n. the president of a country qualification - n. a special skill or type of experience or knowledge that makes someone suitable to do a particular job or activity   See how well you understand the story and develop your listening skills by taking this listening quiz.

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New Rotavirus Vaccine Could Save Thousands of Children

  Researchers in the African country of Niger have introduced a new vaccine that protects against the diarrheal disease called rotavirus. A scientific test has shown that the new vaccine is effective, safe and easy to use. Experts believe it will be more widely used than the two rotavirus vaccines now given to children.  A killer without a good vaccine The new vaccine is important because rotavirus is a serious illness that can lead to death. Rotavirus causes a severe infection of the gastro-intestinal tract. It kills more than 215,000 children each year -- about 600 a day. Two vaccines against rotavirus are already available. However, they are costly and difficult to use. They must also be kept cold. In many African countries where people suffer from rotavirus, refrigeration and electricity are unreliable. As a result, the existing rotavirus vaccines are not widely used. A new option Researchers have been working on a new vaccine for rotavirus called BRV-PV. They recently tested the vaccine with young children in Niger. Researchers gave 1,780 babies the BRV-PV vaccine. Only 31 cases of rotavirus developed in those babies.   In contrast, 87 cases of rotavirus developed among the babies who received a treatment but did not get the real medicine. In other words, those babies were given a placebo. The researchers say the clinical trial shows that BRV-PV was nearly 67 percent effective. The study was published in The New England Journal of Medicine. Three good results Dr. Emmanuel Baron is the director of Epicentre, a research group that is part of Doctors Without Borders, an aid group. Epicentre researchers conducted the clinical trial. “We saw actually three things. The first is that this vaccine is efficient. The second is that this vaccine is safe. And we also saw a good acceptability by both the care providers and the families.” The new vaccine does not need refrigeration for up to six months. Medical workers mix it with liquid and give it to babies three times: when they are 6 weeks old, 10 weeks old, and 14 weeks old.  Baron is happy the new vaccine is effective. But he wishes the success – or efficacy – rate was even higher. “We would love to have 95, 98, 100 percent efficacy. But we know that all vaccines do not work very well in African countries for reasons that are still unclear, probably due to immunological disorders. But we also know that this efficacy of about 70 percent is higher than any other vaccine in similar settings.” The vaccine is expected to cost $6 for the three doses. The price will likely drop as more people are given the vaccine. Baron says medical workers in countries where rotavirus is a serious health threat are waiting for the World Health Organization to approve the vaccine. Then, medical workers can start giving the new vaccine to children. I’m Anne Ball.   VOA Health Correspondent Jessica Berman reported this story from Washington. John Smith adapted the story for Learning English. Kelly Jean Kelly was the editor. We want to hear from you. Write to us in the Comments Section, or visit our Facebook page. See how well you understand the story by taking this reading quiz.   ____________________________________________________________ Words in This Story   diarrheal – adj. related to an illness that causes you to pass waste from your body very frequently and in liquid rather than solid form infection – n. the act or process of infecting someone or something : the state of being infected gastro-intestinal tract – n. an organ system in humans and animals that takes in food, digests it and expels the remaining waste refrigeration – n. the act of keeping something cold to keep it fresh placebo – n. a pill or substance that is given to a patient like a drug but that has no physical effect on the patient clinical trial – n. a scientifically controlled study of the safety and effectiveness of a drug or vaccine using consenting humans for subjects effective – adj. producing a result that is wanted conduct – v.  to plan and do something efficient – adj. capable of producing desired results without wasting materials, time, or energy liquid – n. a substance that is able to flow freely Immunological disorder – n. a disorder or problem with the immune system

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Report: Sales of Counterfeit Reproductions Set to Increase Worldwide

  A new report predicts a rise in counterfeiting and pirated goods over the next ten years. The report says China has been at the center of copying goods, from clothes to electronic devices, and medicines to beauty products. It says governments and businesses are working to stop the illegal and unapproved copying of products, and protect companies and jobs. The International Trademark Association and the International Chamber of Commerce published the report in February. It estimated the value of counterfeiting and piracy worldwide could reach $2.3 trillion by 2022. In 2015, the value was $1.7 trillion. The research company Frontier Economics prepared the report. It said social, investment and criminal enforcement costs could increase the total cost of counterfeiting and piracy to $4.2 trillion. It said that would put about 5.4 million jobs at risk. Counterfeiting and copied goods have always existed. But the increased flow of trade across borders has sped up the production and sale of fake products. The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, or UNODC, noted recently that “counterfeit goods and fraudulent medicines pose a serious risk to public health and safety.” Many everyday goods are manufactured without the knowledge or permission of their owner. Examples can include car supplies, chemicals, electrical supplies, food, drinks and agricultural products. Deaths and sickness have been reported from fake baby-milk powder in Asia. The UNODC and the World Customs Organization estimate 75 percent of counterfeit products seized worldwide in 2010 were made in East Asia. John Houston heads the YPB Group, a product security business based in Australia. He says the counterfeiting problem is centered in China. “The Chinese counterfeiter can now copy the best packaging, they actually put holograms on things that the original brand owner doesn’t have a hologram on, to create the aura of authenticity,” Houston said. “So what you need is a traceable, identifiable, authenticable technology in products and you would be absolutely amazed how little there is in the world.” The UNODC says India and China are the largest sources of counterfeit medicines. It says 60 percent of counterfeit medical products seized worldwide come from China. Chinese officials are working to stop the manufacture of fake medicines. But as they do so, manufacturers are moving to other countries, such as North Korea, Myanmar and Vietnam. The major reason for the increase in counterfeiting is the rise of the internet and online sales. In December, the United States government placed the China-based Alibaba Group on a counterfeit goods “watch list.” Since then, Alibaba has announced steps to stop the sale of counterfeit goods. And it called on Chinese officials to pass stronger laws and take other actions to stop the manufacture of counterfeit goods in China. The company said China’s “ambiguous counterfeiting laws” harm companies’ ability to fight counterfeiters. Alibaba cancelled 380 million product listings and closed 180,000 stores on its websites. It also barred 675 companies from selling on their sites. Some governments help fight counterfeiters. Thailand often carries out raids on counterfeiters and publicizes the destruction of fake goods. Cambodia is dealing with problems from fake medicines. The Interior Ministry recently said it had closed more than 60 illegal pharmacies and had taken steps to stop the production of fake currencies. Vietnam’s Health Department of Medicine Management has been dealing with a flood of counterfeit beauty products. It has suspended sales of more than 30 such products. Businesses in Vietnam have reported that fake products from China were costing them “hundreds of thousands of dollars each year in lost revenue.” Houston said there is increasing demand for technologies to help stop counterfeiting or illegal manufacturing. The website MarketsandMarkets.com said the value of anti-counterfeiting packaging is set to reach $153 billion by 2020. In 2015, that number was $82 billion. Houston said Asian governments are considering using the anti-counterfeiting technology because they understand “the burden and loss of revenue that counterfeit and the black economy place on developing economies.”   Correspondent Ron Corben reported this story from Bangkok. John Smith adapted the report for Learning English. George Grow was the editor. We want to hear from you. Write to us in the Comments Section, or visit our Facebook page. ________________________________________________________________ Words in This Story   counterfeit – v. to make an exact copy of (something) in order to trick people pirate – v. to illegally copy (something) without permission fake – adj. meant to look real or genuine but not real or genuine pose – v. to be or create (a possible threat, danger, problem, etc.) packaging – n. material used to enclose or contain something hologram – n. a special kind of picture that is produced by a laser and that looks three-dimensional aura – n. a special quality or feeling that seems to come from a person, place, or thing (usually + of) authentic – adj. real or genuine; not copied or false trace – v. to follow (something) back to its cause, beginning or origin; to find out where something came from ambiguous – adj. able to be understood in more than one way; having more than one possible meaning revenue – n. money that is made by or paid to a business or an organization  

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