Blood Cancer Therapy Is Last Chance for Some

VOA
Blood Cancer Therapy Is Last Chance for Some
Summary
Immunotherapy means the treatment of disease with substances that stimulate the immune response. However, viruses and bacteria invaded our body easily.
Chemotherapy means the treatment of disease by the use of chemical substances, especially the treatment of cancer by cytotoxic and other drugs. However, it requires repetition of treatment.
This time, an experimental therapy was performed.
The molecules were added into the immune cells that attack cancer cells. It puts back in the patient. It resulted in it's started to fight cancer and  reduction in symptoms  was also seen. It affected some kinds of cancers and leukemia.
Although immunotherapy is considered a last resort, it likely replaces chemotherapy.
Discussion
1.What do you think about this therapy?
I love immunotherapy, because I think when a person keeps drinking strong medicines, it will attack human's natural functions to try to recover. Especially in Japan, doctors overly give us medicines, because they can get benefits.
2.Do you think this therapy is better than chemotherapy? Why?
Yes, I do. This immunotherapy is better than chemotherapy, because it uses human's natural functions and it doesn't require repeated treatments or repetitive cycles of chemotherapy.
3.How do you keep yourself healthy?
To keep myself healthy I have to sleep well and when I arrived home I have to rinse my mouth and wash my hands and avoid eating too much.

Facebook Reactions Much More Than a Like

VOA
Facebook Reactions Much More Than a Like
I was surprised that plural of Emoji was EmojiS!! Emoji came from Japanese language. Japanese people don't use letter S!!  if those are plural. emoji / a ​digital ​image that is ​added to a ​message in ​electronic ​communication in ​order to ​express a ​particular ​idea or ​feeling
Summary
It is known well that the Facebook users can click to quickly express their feelings using "Like" button. This time, the five new buttons called Reactions which are love, haha, wow, sad and angry, are added and are being tested.
The new feature helps users react more sensitively.  Especially when they report the unwelcome news because there was one "Like" button so far. However, it seems that new reactions create confusion. When people react with the Angry emoji, it is difficult to understand that someone angry at someone.
Discussion
1.Do you like using facebook? How often do you use your Facebook account?
No, I don't. Using it will make me busy and my friends use English on it. I can't use English well. And then, I don't like my face pictures. That's why I don't like using Facebook, but I have it. I don't use it now, but someday I want to use it.
2.Are you excited about the new Facebook feature? Why?
No, I am not. It is because this article explained that those would create confusion. I don't want to do something to lead to misunderstanding.
3.Do you think you will move beyond the Like button?
No, I don't. It will be difficult for me to move beyond it, because I'm shy and I don't think that I can use it well.

National Grammar Day Is Here!

VOA
National Grammar Day Is Here!
Summary
March 4 is  National Grammar Day in the United States from 2008.
It celebrates the rules and best practices for the English language.
Martha Brockenbrough who is an author created this day for many people can learn lots of correct English Grammar with fun.
She approaches different language issues also.
Discussion
1.What is the most difficult part of English grammar for you?
I stumble over from first part. I was sure I understood it, but I can't speak well.
It is the most difficult part of English grammar for me to have to add plural "s." I often forget it.
2.Does your country have a holiday for your native language? When is it?
No, it doesn't. My country Japan doesn't have a holiday for Japanese language. However International Mother Language Day is announced by UNESCO to respect every mother tongue. It's on 21 February.
3.Why do you think grammar is important?
I think that it is important for correct communicating to learn grammar.
Using correct grammar becomes understanding easily and well.

Expressions from Alice in Wonderland

VOA
Expressions from Alice in Wonderland
Idioms in this story
1,"I am late! I am late!" You can use it when you don't have time to say hello goodbye.
2,Chasing a white rabbit means to chase the impossible, a fantasy, a dream.
When someone has a dream which is not nearly a match for, you might say that he/she is chasing a white rabbit.
3,Following the white rabbit means following an unlikely clue and finding yourself in the middle of an extraordinary situation. This situation often challenges your beliefs and changes your life.
exsmple: Although he was in following the white rabbit and was  in trouble last year, he seemed overcome it.
4,Down the rabbit hole means to enter a confusing situation.
exsmple: I fell down the rabbit hole, I am in trouble.
5,Mad as a March hare means that someone is completely mad, or crazy. It comes from the March is haers' mating season.  
Mad as a Hatter also means to be completely crazy.
6,The Cheshire Cat means that someone is sneaky, cunning, mischievous, unpredictable and mysterious. Smiling like the Cheshire Cat is so that.
7,Queen of Hearts means a woman who a control freak.
exsmple: She is a Queen of Hearts, everyone cannot be free.
Discussion
1.Have you read Alice in Wonderland? What do you think about it?
Yes, I have. When I was a kid, I read it. I was scared and I didn't understand characters' behavior. I though why they didn't listen to Alice stories.
2.Who is your favorite ‘Alice’ character?
My favorite ‘Alice’ character is the  White Rabbit, because I was scared other characters. They didn't listen to Alice stories. 
3.What do you think is the most useful idiom from Alice in Wonderland? Why?
I think that the most useful idiom from Alice in Wonderland is the Cheshire Cat, because in Japan, the Cheshire Cat is thought as a pretty and cute cat by many people. Even if I who know its true meaning use it, many people may not understand it. They will be glad.

Smart Bandages to Heal Wounds More Quickly

VOA
Smart Bandages to Heal Wounds More Quickly
Summary
When we get moderate wounds, we can use simple bandages. They can cover up the damaged skin easily.
This time, the  new bandages is called "smart bandages."  It was developed using technology. Its material was made using hydrogels which are similar to human skin and added small sensors.
The zig-zag wires are connected to electronic sensors. Therefore, It can be put medicine for damaged skin, it stretches easily without breaking.
It can send out commands to patients and doctors even though they are in different areas, if the wounds get some changes. It can control the drug in accordance with the situation.
It can also be used both on the skin and inside the body.  Patients won't often need to go to the hospitals or drug stores. 
Discussion
1.What do you think of the idea of “smart bandages?
I think that this is a great idea that can help patients who cannot move their body parts well and go to the hospitals. 
2.How can bandages help the wounds in healing?
They can cover up the damaged skin easily.
3.What is the first thing that you do when you get wounded?
I will use water or medicines to clean a wound and after that I will use bandages.
Words in this story
dressing / bandage. a piece of material placed on a wound to protect it.

Chocolate-Covered French Fries Anyone?

VOA
Chocolate-Covered French Fries Anyone?
I lost my chance to eat McChoco Potato. I should have eaten it. I never thought that it would beccme popular.
Summary
In 1971, McDonald's restaurant opened in Tokyo, Japan for the first time.
Then, in 2015 was the worst year of sales but hundreds restaurants were closed in recent year.
This year, January 2016, the chocolate-covered french fries were sold for a limited time.
Because of it, customer sales increased in January.
The fries drizzled with brown and white chocolate syrup was very famous and it was sold for one month at the price 330 yen.
Discussion
1.Do you like fries and chocolate? How about Choco fries?
Yes, I like fries and chocolate. However, I don't think that I want to eat Choco fries. It is because I think that it is a little bit strange for me to change the flavor from salty taste to sweet chocolate. Thus I lost my chance to eat it. I should have eaten it. I never thought that it would beccme popular.
2.What is your favorite McDonalds meal? Please share other McDonalds meal that is only available in your country.
My favorite McDonalds meal is potaoes fries. I think that some hamburgers that are only sold here in Japan.
3.What are the effect of eating too much fast food?
It is very bad for your health and it can causes obesity

The World’s 10 Places ‘On the Rise’

VOA
The World’s 10 Places ‘On the Rise’
Summary
In the world, there are many beautiful places. Old person leaves us those places. We have to cherish those. Traveling will give you good power.
The World's 10 Places 'On the Rise'
1,Tulum, Mexico. 2,Cartagena, Colombia. 3,Porto, Portugal. 4,Gatlinburg, Tennessee. 5, Moscow, Russia. 6,Brighton, England. 7,New Delhi, India. 8,Banff, Canada. 9,Lima, Peru. 10,Iguazu Falls, Brazil.
Discussion
1.Do you enjoy traveling? What was the best place you have traveled?
No, I don't.  It is because I didn't speak English when I went to Hawaii and Guam.  What was worse, I couldn't swim and I didn't think that I want to get a sunburn.  I don't like traveling by air.  I was so tired to go to Hawaii because of too far away. I had been in the airplane for 8 hours.  After arriving there I slept many times even lunch and dinner time. My friend said that Mari always slept in Hawaii.
2.Have you ever traveled one of these places? If not, where would you like to go?
No, I haven't. I would like to go to India. It is because India and Japan are the same Asian country.  It will be nearer to India from Japan than Hawaii. Many Indian people learn in English. I want to use English next time. In India, there is a school which was built by Japanese people in order to local children go to there. I want to go there and learn and teach something with them.
3,What country gives you a good impression?
In this article, a waterfall in gives me a good impression and power.
Words in this story
architect / person, architecture / noun, architectural / adj
coastal,colonial,raw, sits, sites

Helping Children Too Much Is Hurting Them

VOA
Helping Children Too Much Is Hurting Them
In Japan, Helicopter parenting is called "Monster parent". It means the monster is not human. In school or communities, their behavior isn't what human do.
Summary
Helicopter parenting describes a style of raising children.
Firstly, their parents are over-protective and do too much. It is because they think the world is scary and unsafe. Therefore, they must protect and prevent.
Secondly, they can give their children directions at any moment from anywhere to lead to success.
Thirdly, they take care of all their children need like the concierge does. They do even their child's homework. 
However, parents should stop it, because it is short-term wins. Their children may not feel capable. They will give up easily when faced with a difficult problem to solve.
Parents must stop saying "we" and arguing for kids.  They need to teach their kids to advocate for themselves.  They must let kids do the homework by themselves and teach them to do many things to build skills. Their children will be prepared for adulthood.
Discussion
1.Do you know someone who is a “helicopter parent”? Do you think this is a good way of parenting?
No, I don't. There is no “helicopter parent”around me, however, I have recently heard about that on TV or in the internet.
No, I don't. I think that this is not a good way of parenting.
2.Were your parents a little too protective?
No, they were not. My parents were not over protective. They always told  me to do things and try them even if I failed.
3.What was the best thing your parents have taught you?
The best thing my parents taught me is to have minimum manners and lessons. For example, to be kind and honest to others. Don't stand up while eating and don't throw your garbage anywhere and etc.

Copper Metal Kills Viruses on Contact

VOA
Copper Metal Kills Viruses on Contact
Summary
In ancient times, copper was used to sterilize drinking water or for medical treatments among Greeks Egyptians. It was recorded that copper alloys such as brass were often used in building materials. However, it seemed to understand the science behind it.
Nowadays, the studies are finding that copper kills many germs which are called pathogens or viruses on contact. Copper ions are able to punch holes in the cell’s membrane, enter the cell and destroy their nucleic acid, and then it doesn't mutate.
However, it is recently stopped using because of its costs.
It is more important for people not to get sick. It will lead to saving hospitals' money reducing fighting infection and treating with drugs.
Discussion
1.What is the most important use of copper in this article?
Although using copper for building materials kills many germs on contact, it has been stopped using because of its costs. However, it is more important for people not to get sick. It will lead to saving hospitals' money, reducing fighting infection and treating with drugs.
2.What are the most common viruses that is found in your area?
I think that influenza viruses are the most common viruses that is found in my area especially in winter. Sometimes, schools are closed to prevent infection.
3.How do you stay away from any infection?
I wash my hands and rinse out my mouth when I come back from outside. Sleeping well for me not to have fatigue building up, not going to a crowded place and wearing a mask will prevent me from any infection.
Words in this story
nucleic acid /  a ​type of ​acid, for ​example, ​DNA and ​RNA, that is ​found in all ​living ​cells and ​contains the ​genetic ​information ​passed from ​parents to ​children.

Saudi Arabian Women’s Sports Break Stereotypes

VOA
Saudi Arabian Women’s Sports Break Stereotypes
Summary
Saudi Arabia is one of the richest countries in the Middle East. There is developing transportation and other infrastructure as modern as other developed countries. However, women haven't still gotten their right as same as men. In Saudi Arabia, women playing sports were legally and religiously forbidden. Recently, it started to accept, but people's thoughts haven't completely changed yet. Women don't have much opportunity to do. They can't keep being healthy. In Saudi Arabia, players seek to understand playing sports from its point also.
Discussion
1.Are women encouraged to play sports in your country? What kind of sports do they usually play?
Yes, in my country Japan, many sports are popular among women. They tend to like sports which are  popular among men, those are for example soccer, baseball, ice skating, golf, tennis and  etc.  In Japan, a new female football team was formed to compete in the Olympic games.
2.What does it mean when they say “break stereotypes”?
Stopping to think old ideas and accepting new.
3.Which is easier to become a woman or a man in your country? Why?
I think that becoming a man is easier in my country. Being a man will be on top in business and private scenes somehow. I think that men seek a freedom, it looked too easy for them to have it. Women basically have maternal instincts that control them.
Words in this story
stereotype /  a fixed idea or image that many people have of a particular type of person or thing, but which is often not true in reality

Earthquake Survivors Found in Building in Taiwan

VOA
Earthquake Survivors Found in Building in Taiwan
Summary
The powerful earthquake of magnitude 6.4 struck early Saturday in Taiwan.
In Tainan, 17-story apartment building has fallen because of it. More than 300 people have been rescued from there though it has considered that many people are still in .
At least 36 people have died. If they must be found within 72 hours after being trapped, a victim will increase.
Some rescue teams are helping search for surviors though there have been several smaller quakes since Saturday and people are forced to leave there.
It is thought that the damage was big in Tainan where there has been some old buildings is the historic city.
Discussion
1.What should you do the second an earthquake hits?
I think that it is important to leave the area where there is old buildings and near the sea. It is because old buildings might fall and Tunami might come.
2.How do you feel when you see and hear news reports of earthquakes?
I hope that a number of victims doesn't increase and Tunamu doesn't come. I pray for the victims.
3.Do you think an earthquake is the world’s scariest natural disaster?
Yes, I do. However, recently a typhoon is getting strong and often occuer because of global warming. In Japan, there is a tradition that expresses the scariest natural disaster. People fear earthquakes, thunder, fires, and fathers.

Japan, South Korea Warn Against North Korea Missile Launch

VOA
Japan, South Korea Warn Against North Korea Missile Launch
Summary
On Tuesday, North Korea launched  a missile again. It traveled over a great distance, fell to the ground and then exploded. It's forbidden and violation in the humanity. It is costly for North Korea but it is said that ending their nuclear weapons program in exchange for economic aid and security guarantees. However, they don't agree.
Japan, South Korea and the United States have criticized this problem. The U.S. and China agree that the UN should approve a strong resolution against North Korea however, it has still not decided . It is because if something sanctions are put, some companies and banks which are based in China will get targeted. It will lead to increasing tensions between the U.S and China. China wants to protect their position that they are the North's top trading partner.
It is said that North Korea has more than 1000 missiles also.
Discussion
1.What is your opinion about this issue?
I can't understand why it is important to launch missiles and show power. North Korea is not rich country but citizens also are suffering. It is strange that it is important for them to have a nuclear weapon programs more than getting economic aid.
2.What could happen if North Korea will pursue to launch the missile?
To launch a missile is costly. They are likely to become poorer and poorer.
3.What do you think about North Korea?
I think that North Korea is difficult country to understand. Some people escaped. If many people do from North Korea, they will be more poor country. South Korea will get damaged also.

Person Infected With Zika Virus Through Sexual Contact

VOA
Person Infected With Zika Virus Through Sexual Contact
Summary
Zika virus is transmitted to people primarily through the bite of an infected mosquitoes. However, it was announced the virus spread through blood transfusion and the first case of the Zika virus being transmitted in the United States by sexual contact.
It was confirmed that the person who is a non-traveler became infected after having sexual contact with a person who had returned from Venezuela.
Since last year, the Virus has spread by mosquitoues in Latin America, including Venezuela and Brazil where Summer Olympics will be held.
The Brazilan government said to fight the spread of Zika and asked the U.S. government and the WHO for financial help and development a vaccine. They ruled out a ban on traveling or trade.
Discussion
1.How can people protect themselves from the Zika virus?
People can protect themselves from the Zika virus by taking care not to be bitten by mosquitos and not to have sexual contact with a person who had returned from Latin America.
2.What are the effects of the Zika virus to people?
The effects of Zika are fever, rash, headache, joint pain and red eyes. Zika causes mostly mild symptoms in adults. However, in newborn babies, the disease can cause severe brain damage called microcephaly.
3.How does your government warn you about this virus?
Japanese government announces that the Zika virus disease which is called the Zika fever in Japan has been spreading in Latin America. The Zika fever is classified by the law as being infectious. The doctors have the obligation to notify the Japanese government when someone is diagnosed with Zika virus.
Words in this article
ruled out / exclude
bite bit bitten / bάɪt bít bítn /
hide hid hidden / hάɪd híd hídn/
diagnose / dάɪəgnòʊs /

Trending Today: Barbie ReimaginedSummary

VOA
Trending Today: Barbie Reimagined
Summary
Three new Barbie dolls were announced. One barbie's waist is more realistic proportion than the previous. Others represent different ethnicities, with a range of skin colors and hair styles.
There were some criticism however, it was not enough for consumers not to buy. There were some good comments though there were some opposite.
The Barbie doll you know will be tall, blond and blue eyed. It was many people's longing for a long time.
Discussion
1.What do you think of the new Barbie dolls?
I don't have ideas whether it is good. When I was a child, I also had a doll. However, people around me didn't think about the doll's body proportion. What's important to us was to have a doll. In the past, toys were few, but now there are many toys and other special things for children. Probably, it will be more fun to use smartphones or iPad or tablet games than playing doll.
2.Are you concerned about your physical looks? Why?
Yes, I am. I am not strong. Even if I am not concerned about my physical looks, when I hear about the critic against me, it becomes my concern. Especially, boyfriend's views has a big impact to me.
3.If there is anything that you would like to change in your body, What is it? Why?
I want to have my long hair back. I have alopecia since last year. I was very proud to have long hair. Suddenly, my hair started to fall out. I can't use combs, because I am scared for my hiar to fall off. If I turn my head to left or right side, my hair will fall off on the floor.
alopecia / the partial or complete absence of hair from areas of the body where it normally grows; baldness.

Is Zika Virus in Brazil Causing Brain Damage in Babies?

VOA
Is Zika Virus in Brazil Causing Brain Damage in Babies?
Summary
In Brazil, a problem of birth defects comes up and women are being warned not to get pregnant. It is because babies were born recently with extremely small heads and severe brain damage. They are likely to die around 10 % after birth. Its condition is called microcephaly. Its number in Brazil increase quickly and started to spread in other some countries. It is thought that the virus called Zika is spread by mosquitos though it had yet to be determined. Zika causes mostly mild symptoms in adults. However, in newborns the disease can cause severe brain damage. There is no vaccine or medicine to prevent or treat Zika. It is necessary for travelers and especially pregnant women to be careful not to be bitten by mosquitos.
Discussion
1.What are the effects of Zika Virus?
The common symptoms of Zika are fever, rash, headache, joint pain and red eyes. Zika causes mostly mild symptoms in adults. However, in newborn babies, the disease can cause severe brain damage called microcephaly.
2.How can pregnant woman protect herself from getting the Zika virus?
Pregnant women can protect herself from getting the Zika virus by take care not to be bitten by mosquitos.
3.Do you enjoy travelling? How do you protect yourself from travel-borne diseases?
No, I don't. This story makes me scared of travelling . It is suggested that I should protect myself from travel-borne diseases to have a vaccination before traveling. 

Roman Toilets Offered No Clear Health Benefits

VOA
Roman Toilets Offered No Clear Health Benefits
Summary
"Roman toilets offered no clear health benefits" it was surprisingly announced in the journal Parasitology.  Romans have left several historic buildings. Around 2000 years ago, they built public latrines, baths and some sewerage systems. However, it was found that parasites such as lice were widespread and a serious disease, dysentery increased by examining fossilized feces and excavated combs.
It was said that the warm waters of the bathhouses that people shared was the reason. The waters were not changed often, and scum, or a layer of human dirt and cosmetics, would float on the top of the bathing water. Human waste was used to fertilize crops, and it led to spreading pareasites eggs in there. It would relate that they ate garum which was made from pieces of fermented fish. Due to not being cooked, in the sealed jars, the fish tapeworm increased also.
It's suggested that Roman sanitation may not be good because people couldn't keep health. 
Discussion
1. Have you ever been to Rome? IF not, what do you know about Rome?
I have never been to Rome. I think that Rome is a beautiful citiy where there are a lot of famous historic buildings. It is said that their sewerage systems which are public latrines and private baths are great though new findings was announced this time. It is amazing to know the history, even it's thousands of years ago.
2. Does your country have it’s own ‘toilet culture’? What are they?
Yes, it has. By the way, I had my own experience that it was important to keep public toilets clean. In the past, even in Japan, the public toilets were not cleaned in the stations or in the Department stores. I was not able to use those when I go outside. I got sick. It is important for us to pass waste out from our body. Recently, Japanese toilets are beautiful and clean. Especially, in the Department stores or  Sopping malls. Its areas are wide and useful. It's almost set toilet seat with bidet function called wash toilet in Japanese. There are some spaces where women can sit and put on makeup. It's a strategy which Department stores lure women to come in their place. It seems that some foreigners take photos there due to its beauty.
3.What are the traditional cleaning methods in your country?
Now, Japanese sewerage systems are great. Used water at toilets, baths, kitchen and rainwater, those are cleaned in the sewage plants and released in the seas.
Words in this story
latrines / a toilet, especially a communal one in a camp or barracks.
scum / a layer of dirt or froth on the surface of a liquid.
fertilize / cause (an egg, female animal, or plant) to develop a new individual by introducing male reproductive material.
garum / fish sauce (made from fermented salted fish)

Best Tool to Teach Baby Talk? Their Parents' Voice

VOA 
Best Tool to Teach Baby Talk? Their Parents' Voice
Summary
This time, how electronic toys affect children was studied in the Arizona University.
The result showed that they're not helping children learn. It is because parents talked lesser with their children when children play with electronic toys than traditional toys, or when children look at books.
Children start learning a language  based on what they hear from parents.
To share and talk with children are important things that parents should do like reading a book.
Playing electronic toys is not bad, but it is better for children to speak more, even if they play electronic toys. It is important that parents make time to play with their children.
Discussion
1.What do you think about educational toys for children?
I think that giving electronic toys will be self-worth for adults. Companies have to sell those to get profit.  Parents don't have or make enough time to be with their children instead of they will give those to the children.
2.Why do you think it is important for parents to talk to their babies?
This article says that children develop their language quicly based on what they hear from parents. To share and talk with children are important things that parents should do like reading a book to them.
3.Do you like children? Do you enjoy being in their company?
Yes, I do. I like children who are honest. They talk about something that they hear and feel. If children aren't honest, that goes the same way to their mother parents. There is a Japanese proverb: Children are faithful reflections of their parents. (Your parent's attitude tells you who you are.)
Yes, I do. I like my job. When children find our company products which are flag keychains, they always start asking what country those flag belong with joy. Seeing those joyful faces makes us happy.
Words in this story
electronic / having or operating with the aid of many small components, especially microchips and transistors, that control and direct an electric current.
make believe / pretend or imagine.

New US Food Advice Not to Everyone’s Taste

VOA
New US Food Advice Not to Everyone’s Taste
Summary
The new nutritional guidelines are issued by the U.S. government.
However, we must take care of cholesterol in-takethemselves. It is because the guidelines don't recommend avoiding cholesterol for our health but the recommendation won't lead to a decline in foods sales.
It is suggested that it is good to recommend eating more fruits, vegetables and nuts than animal protein and sodium. However, it will be bat for people to be able to eat as many eggs as they like each day, it will lead to taking in cholesterol too much.
Further, it won't be good not to recommend that breakfast is necessary also. It seems that there is a misunderstanding about the positive reports of how coffee decreases the risks of diabetes and Parkinson’s disease.
This is suggested to be censored information. If it took the whole  new recommendations, it would lead to unnecessary premature deaths, diabetes or etc. It will be important that individuals should eat as little dietary cholesterol as possible.
Discussion
1.What kind of foods do you usually eat in a day?
I usually eat vegetable and tofu (bean curd) made from soy beans. Rice is a staple food for Japanese people. However, recently many people have eaten bread in stead of rice. I also eat rice and bread though I eat vegetable more than those. It is because I know it is healthy for me.
2.Have you tried making any changes with your diet? What changes have you made in your diet?
Yes, I have. When I don't have time to cook, I often eat bread and sandwich. However, I heard that eating too much wheat is not good for our health. Further, bread contains a lot of sugar which is also not good. That's why, I try to eat vegetable.
I want to change my habit of drinking too much coffee. It is because I heard that drinking too much caffeine is not good as well. However, I drink countless cups of coffee every day especially during work.
3.Why do you think it is important to eat healthy foods?
Foods you had makes up your body. Losing your health leads to some diseases. It will even give another cost in curing.
In my opinion, it is important not to eat too much of something more  than  healthy foods. In the market, companies have  to sell a lot of their delicious foods even if some ingredients which are not good for our body are used . We must take care of it ourselves.
Words in this article
censored / examine (a book, movie, etc.) officially and suppress unacceptable parts of it.

Life in the Fast Lane

VOA
Life in the Fast Lane
Summary
Life in the fast lane means that your life is a very active or possible risky way to live. It is not happy for a person who lives in the fast lane to just live life quietly. They like exciting experience like a party or finding their next big thrill. It is a selfish way to live.
Down the road means in the future.
A rocky road or a fork in the road mean a very difficult phase.
Burn out means that you lose your power because of overwork or stress or you do something too much.
A full 8 hours means to have a good rest in night like you have eight hours' sleep
The end of the road  means that they die.
Discussion
1.Do you have a similar expression in your language?
Yes, I think that in my language Japanese, we have some similar expressions. However, I don't have ideas what the most similar one is. I feel it is a bit different. For example, diligent application or friendly competition (sessatakuma) means that they improved themselves through friendly rivalry.
Live this day as if it were your last (itiniti isyou) means that it is better for you to spend this day thinking that it'll be your last day. You will make this day the best.
2.What is the good point of living a life in the fast lane? What is the bad point?
The good point of living a life in the fast lane is that their life is a very active. They like exciting experience like a party or finding their next big thrill
The bad thing is, it's a selfish way to live. They might drink a lot of alcohol or use other drugs. They don't think about how their lifestyle may affect them or how it may affect others.
3.Do you enjoy driving? How long can you drive?
No, I don't. I don't have a car now. However, if this driving is part of my life, then my answer is yes. Now, my life is full of movement, excitement and action. I am not living in rich. Though I don't have enough money, I still enjoy working, studying and also love.

Let’s Get Down to the Nitty-Gritty!

VOA
Let’s Get Down to the Nitty-Gritty!
Summary
What is a nitty-gritty? Nitty-gritty is an informal rhyming compound word. It is not clear when it was started being used and why. The origin is said that it relates slave ships and slavery in America. Nitty-gritty means the most important part or basic truth of any situation or subject. The heart and soul of a matter, the gist of a conversation, the essence of an argument, the crux, the core, the bottom line or reality are also considered as its meaning. It shows the practical details that need to be finished also.
Words in this story
rhyming / two or more words with the same ​final ​sound, or the use of such words, especially  at the ​ends of ​lines in a ​poem or ​song. walking/talking
slave / a person who is the legal property of another and is forced to obey them.
Discussion
1. Are there any useful rhyming words in your language like nitty-gritty?
I think that there are some rhyming words in Japan though I am sorry I didn't know well. Anyway, I wrote it. What about this? Syusya means rejection and adoption.                                                                                    
I know that in Japan there are many useful repitition (reduplication) words. For example, dandan means gradually.                                    
2. When dealing with the problem, do you always get down to the nitty-gritty?
Yes, I do. I always try to get down to the nitty-gritty when dealing with a problem. Sometimes in a meeting, people begin telling many things that are only beneficial for them. Therefore, the meeting will take longer and the agenda will not be dealt accordingly. It is important to know the nitty-gritty of the things.