Wednesday, August 19, 2009

Tips for Preventing Heat-Related Illness

  • Drink more fluids (nonalcoholic), regardless of your action level. Don't wait until you’re thirsty to drink
  • Don’t drink liquids that include alcohol or large amounts of sugar–these actually cause you to lose more body fluid. Also, avoid very cold drinks, because they can cause stomach cramps.
  • Stay inside and, if at all possible, stay in an air-conditioned place. If your home does not have air conditioning, go to the shopping mall or public library–even a few hours spent in air conditioning can help your body stay cooler when you go back into the heat. Call your local health section to see if there are any heat-relief shelters in your area.
  • Electric fans may provide comfort, but when the high temperature is in the high 90s, fans will not prevent heat-related illness. Taking a cool shower or bath, or moving to an air-conditioned place is a much improved way to cool off.
  • Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing.
  • NEVER leave anyone in a closed, parked automobile.
  • Although any one at any time can suffer from heat-related illness, some people are at greater risk than others. Check regularly on:
  1. Infants and young kids
  2. People aged 65 or older
  3. People who have a mind illness
  4. Those who are physically ill, especially with heart disease or high blood pressure
Visit adults at risk at least twice a day and directly watch them for signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Infants and young children, of course, need much more regular watching.


If you must be out in the heat:
  • Limit your outdoor action to morning and evening hours.
  • Cut down on work out. If you must work out, drink two to four glasses of cool, nonalcoholic fluids each hour. A sports beverage can replace the salt and minerals you lose in sweat.
  • Try to rest often in shady areas.
  • Protect manually from the sun by wearing a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses and by putting on sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher.
Stem Cells in India

Thursday, August 13, 2009

Do you have swine flu ?

The most common symptoms of swine flu are similar to those of seasonal flu, including fever, weakness and fatigue and aching muscles and joints, although, these could be more severe. Certain people are most at risk, including pregnant women, the elderly and young children and people with underlying health conditions.


What is swine flu?

A new strain of Influenza A (H1N1), also known as swine flu, was confirmed in the UK in April and has spread to nearly 200 countries around the world.

Although symptoms have generally proved mild, a small number of patients will develop more serious illness. Many of these people have other underlying health conditions, such as heart or lung disease, that put them at increased risk.


Symptoms

The symptoms of swine flu are similar to the symptoms of regular seasonal flu and include:

  • fever
  • lack of energy
  • lack of appetite
  • coughing
Some people with swine flu also have reported:
  • runny nose
  • sore throat
  • nausea
  • vomiting
  • diarrhoea
As with any sort of influenza, how bad and how long the symptoms last will depend on treatment and the patient’s individual circumstances.

Most cases reported in the UK have been relatively mild, with those affected starting to recover within a week.

Tuesday, August 11, 2009

Strengthening Activities and Older Adults

No matter your age, regular physical movement is one of the most important things you can do for your health. And if you're an older adult, regular physical activity is essential for strong aging. To get the strength benefits of physical activity, not only do you need to do aerobic actions that make you breathe harder and your heart beat faster, but you also need to do strengthening behavior to make your muscles stronger.


According to the 2008 Physical Activity rule for Americans, older adults gain considerable health benefits from 2 hours and 30 minutes (150 minutes) a week of reasonable-strength aerobic activity (i.e., brisk walking), in combination with muscle-strengthening activities on 2 or more days a week that work all seven major muscle groups - your legs, hips, back, abdomen, chest, shoulders, and arms.

Benefits of Muscle-Strengthening Activities

As people age, they lose muscle. Muscle-strengthening activities can build muscle tissue and help slow the rate of age-related muscle loss. In addition, strengthening activities can maintain the strength of your bones and improve your balance, coordination, and mobility. Older adults who participate in moderate-intensity muscle-strengthening and balance activities are less likely to have falls.

When to Check with Your Doctor

Doing activity that requires moderate effort is safe for most people, regardless of age. However, if you have a health condition such as heart disease, arthritis, or diabetes be sure to talk with your doctor about the types and amounts of physical activity that are right for you.


Tips for Getting Started

  • Choose behavior that work all seven major muscle groups of your body (legs, hips, back, chest, abdomen, shoulders, and arms), such as lifting weights, effective with resistance bands, doing exercises that use your body weight for resistance, or yoga.
  • Try to do 8–12 repetitions per strengthening activity. A repetition is one complete movement of an activity, like lifting a weight or doing one sit-up. To develop muscle strength and endurance, the number of strengthening activities needs to be done to the point where it's hard for you to do another repetition without help.
  • Strive to increase the weight that you currently lift when it becomes too easy. Muscles are strengthened by progressively increasing the weight you lift over time. When you can lift the weight 8–12 times easily, it may be time to increase the amount of weight at your next session.
  • You can do muscle-strengthening behavior in a number of settings, including your home or a gym. For examples of activities you may want to try, visit Growing Stronger – Strength Training for Older Adults: Exercises, Muscle Strengthening at Home, and Muscle Strengthening at the Gym

Tuesday, August 4, 2009

Learn more about vitamin B12 deficiency

Vitamin B12 is one of several B vitamins. It is needed to make new red blood cells and help your nervous system work well. Vitamin B12 is found naturally in meat, fish, eggs, and dairy products. It is not found naturally in plant-based foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and cereal grains. Some people need to take vitamin supplements or vitamin B12 shots to get enough.


What are the signs and symptoms of a vitamin B12 deficiency?

Vitamin B12 deficiency develops slowly, and symptoms appear so gradually that they can be missed. Vitamin B12 deficiency can cause anemia over time. The symptoms of anemia include feeling weak, tired, and faint; heart palpitations; looking pale; and shortness of breath. Vitamin B12 deficiency can also cause tingling of hands and feet, changes in ability to walk, loss of vision, memory problems, seeing things that aren't there, sadness, and changes in personality. Infants and young children who are vitamin B12 deficient might have problems growing, weak muscle tone, delays in development, and general weakness.

What should I do if I think I might have vitamin B12 deficiency?

If you have those symptoms, set up a time to visit your doctor.

Who is at risk for a vitamin B12 deficiency?

The chances for developing vitamin B12 deficiency increase with age, untreated pernicious anemia, gastric (stomach) surgery, or long-term use of strict vegetarian (vegan) diet. Infants and young children born to and breastfed by women who are vegans are also more likely to develop this deficiency.

Thursday, July 30, 2009

Green Tea

This fact sheet provides basic information about green tea—common names, uses, potential side effects, and resources for more information. All types of tea (green, black, and oolong) are produced from the Camellia sinensis plant using different methods. Fresh leaves from the Camellia sinensis plant are steamed to produce green tea.

Common Names-green tea, Chinese tea, Japanese tea


What It Is Used For

  • Green tea and green tea extracts, such as its component EGCG, have been used to prevent and treat a variety of cancers, including breast, stomach, and skin cancers.
  • Green tea and green tea extracts have also been used for improving mental alertness, aiding in weight loss, lowering cholesterol levels, and protecting skin from sun damage.
How It Is Used

Green tea is usually brewed and drunk as a beverage. Green tea extracts can be taken in capsules and are sometimes used in skin products.

What the Science Says
  • Laboratory studies suggest that green tea may help protect against or slow the growth of certain cancers, but studies in people have shown mixed results.
  • Some evidence suggests that the use of green tea preparations improves mental alertness, most likely because of its caffeine content. There are not enough reliable data to determine whether green tea can aid in weight loss, lower blood cholesterol levels, or protect the skin from sun damage.
  • Green tea and their effects on conditions such as cancer, diabetes, and heart disease.


Side Effects and Cautions


  • Green tea is safe for most adults when used in moderate amounts.
  • There have been some case reports of liver problems in people taking concentrated green tea extracts. This problem does not seem to be connected with green tea infusions or beverages. Although these cases are very rare and the evidence is not definitive, experts suggest that concentrated green tea extracts be taken with food, and that people should discontinue use and consult a heath care practitioner if they have a liver disorder or develop symptoms of liver trouble, such as abdominal pain, dark urine, or jaundice.
  • Green tea and green tea extracts contain caffeine. Caffeine can cause insomnia, anxiety, irritability, upset stomach, nausea, diarrhea, or frequent urination in some people.
  • Green tea contains small amounts of vitamin K, which can make anticoagulant drugs, such as warfarin, less effective.
  • Tell your health care providers about any complementary and alternative practices you use. Give them a full picture of what you do to manage your health. This will help ensure coordinated and safe care.

Wednesday, July 22, 2009

Wednesday, July 15, 2009

Finding a Balance

Weight is a result of caloric balance. If we eat more calories than we use, we gain weight. If we eat less calories than we use, we lose weight. Obesity may be the most frequent chronic disease that we have in front of us and it's important because it's a major contributor to other diseases like cancer, diabetes, and heart disease.


To support efforts to help individuals achieve this balance and to provide insights into ways in which communities can be involved, CDC-TV has just released a new video in its "Health Matters" series "Finding a Balance" providing expert perspectives on caloric or "energy" balance and personal stories of how individuals have made changes in their lives to achieve this balance.

New "Health Matters" features are released each month, and each are produced in collaboration with subject matter experts within CDC's Centers, Institutes and Offices. Features will also provide links to other online resources for each topic where viewers can find more information. These programs will provide insights into each topic, information about research or programs from CDC, and ideas on how viewers might address the issue. Other CDC-TV content will include PSA's, and innovative content such as the animated "Eyes of the Eagle" book series.

Providing short, high-quality videos is part of CDC's goal to increase people's access to the information necessary to help prevent illness, injury and to protect their health and that of their families. Collectively, these and other resources contribute to CDC's efforts supporting a larger effort by staff and partners to lead America toward being the Healthiest Nation.

Tuesday, July 14, 2009

Keep Your Cool in Hot Weather

Getting too hot can make you sick. You can become ill from the heat if your body can't compensate for it and properly cool you off. Heat exposure can even kill you: it caused 8,015 deaths in the United States from 1979 to 2003.


These are the main things affecting your body's ability to cool itself during extremely hot weather:

  • High humidity. When the humidity is high, sweat won't evaporate as quickly, which keeps your body from releasing heat as fast as it may need to.
  • Personal factors. Age, obesity, fever, dehydration, heart disease, mental illness, poor circulation, sunburn, and prescription drug and alcohol use can play a role in whether a person can cool off enough in very hot weather.


Here are some facts about which people are at greatest risk for heat-related illness and what protective actions to take to prevent illness or death:


  • People who are at highest risk are the elderly, the very young, and people with mental illness and chronic diseases
  • But even young and healthy people can get sick from the heat if they participate in strenuous physical activities during hot weather.
  • Air-conditioning is the number one protective factor against heat-related illness and death. If a home is not air-conditioned, people can reduce their risk for heat-related illness by spending time in public facilities that are air-conditioned.



You can take these steps to prevent heat-related illnesses, injuries, and deaths during hot weather:
  • Stay cool indoors.
  • Drink plenty of fluids.
  • Replace salt and minerals.
  • Wear appropriate clothing and sunscreen.
  • Schedule outdoor activities carefully.
  • Pace yourself.
  • Use a buddy system.
  • Monitor people at high risk.
  • Adjust to the environment.
  • Do not leave children in cars.
  • Use common sense.

Monday, July 13, 2009

Healthy Aging

The United States is on the brink of a longevity revolution. By 2030, the proportion of the U.S. population aged 65 and older will double to about 71 million older adults, or one in every five Americans. The far-reaching implications of the increasing number of older Americans and their growing diversity will include unprecedented demands on public health, aging services, and the nation's health care system.


Chronic diseases exact a particularly heavy health and economic burden on older adults due to associated long-term illness, diminished quality of life, and greatly increased health care costs. Although the risk of disease and disability clearly increases with advancing age, poor health is not an inevitable consequence of aging.

Much of the illness, disability, and death associated with chronic disease is avoidable through known prevention measures. Key measures include practicing a healthy lifestyle (e.g., regular physical activity, healthy eating, and avoiding tobacco use) and the use of early detection practices (e.g., screening for breast, cervical, and colorectal cancers, diabetes and its complications, and depression).

Critical knowledge gaps exist for responding to the health needs of older adults. For chronic diseases and conditions such as Alzheimer's disease, arthritis, depression, psychiatric disorders, osteoporosis, Parkinson's disease, and urinary incontinence, much remains to be learned about their distribution in the population, associated risk factors, and effective measures to prevent or delay their onset.

Saturday, July 11, 2009

Improve Your Ability to do Daily Activities and Prevent Falls


A functional limitation is a loss of the ability to do everyday activities such as climbing stairs, grocery shopping, or playing with your grandchildren.

How does this relate to physical activity?

If you're a physically active middle-aged or older adult, you have a lower risk of functional limitations than people who are inactive

Already have trouble doing some of your everyday activities?

Aerobic and muscle-strengthening activities can help improve your ability to do these types of tasks.

Are you an older adult who is at risk for falls?

Research shows that doing balance and muscle-strengthening activities each week along with moderate-intensity aerobic activity, like brisk walking, can help reduce your risk of falling.

Friday, July 10, 2009

Women Need 400 Micrograms of Folic Acid Every Day

The B vitamin folic acid helps prevent birth defects. If a woman has enough folic acid in her body before and while she is pregnant, her baby is less likely to have a major birth defect of the brain or spine.

What Is Folic Acid?


Folic acid is a B vitamin. Our bodies use it to make new cells. Everyone needs folic acid. But for women who can get pregnant, it is really important! If a woman has enough folic acid in her body before she is pregnant, it can help prevent major birth defects of her baby's brain and spine. These birth defects are neural tube defects or NTDs. Women need to take folic acid every day, starting before they are pregnant to help prevent NTDs.

CDC and the US Public Health Service urge every woman who could become pregnant to get 400 micrograms (400 mcg) of synthetic folic acid every day.

How Much Is Enough? Look for 100% Daily Value (DV)

One easy way a woman can be sure she is getting enough folic acid is to take a vitamin that has folic acid in it every day. Folic acid pills and most multivitamins sold in the United States have 100% of the daily value (DV) of folic acid; check the label to be sure.You can get your vitamin with folic acid in one of several ways. You can take a multivitamin or a small, single supplement of folic acid. These days, multivitamins with folic acid come in chewable chocolate or fruit flavors, liquids, and large oval or smaller round pills. Many stores offer a single folic acid supplement for just pennies a day.


Another good choice is a store brand multivitamin, which includes most of the vitamins you need each day. Unless your doctor suggests a special type, you do not need to choose among vitamins for women or active people, or even to go with a low carbohydrate diet. A basic multivitamin meets the needs of most women.

Another way to get enough is to eat a serving of breakfast cereal every day that has been enriched with 100% of the daily value of folic acid. Not every cereal has this amount. Check the label on the side of the box, and look for one that has "100%" next to folic acid.


When Should a Woman Start Taking Folic Acid?

These birth defects of the brain and spine happen in the first few weeks of pregnancy, often before a woman finds out that she is pregnant. All women should get in the habit of taking folic acid daily even when they are not planning to get pregnant. For folic acid to help, a woman needs to take it every day, starting before she becomes pregnant.

Folic Acid: All Women, Every Day

You might think that you can get all the folic acid and other vitamins you need from the food you eat each day. But it is hard to eat a diet that has all the nutrients you need every day. Even with careful planning, you might not get all the vitamins you need from your diet alone. That's why it's important to take a vitamin with folic acid every day.


Today's woman is busy! You know that you should exercise, eat right, and get enough sleep. You might wonder how you can fit another thing into your day. But it only takes a few seconds to take a vitamin to get all the folic acid you need!

Thursday, July 9, 2009

Kids Gym

With Toddler Gym, Kindy Gym, Advanced Kindy Gym, Junior Gym, Primary Gym and Advanced Primary Gym classes for kids aged 1½ to 10 years, you're sure to find a Kids Gym class to add some zing to your child's day.

Benefits of Kids Gym

  • Increase confidence & independence
  • Develops coordination, balance & motor skills
  • It's great fun
  • Lets kids use their energy
  • Increases fitness
  • Improves muscle tone & flexibility
Children are taught by qualified gymnastics coaches in the purpose build WA Institute of Sports Training Centre at VenuesWest Challenge Stadium.


Toddler Gym - 1½ to 3 years

Toddler Gym introduces kids to gymnastics. Children have fun while learning the fundamentals of tumbling, balance and coordination with the support of a parent or guardian.Toddler Gym classes run for 45 minutes.

Kindy Gym - 3 to 4 years

Kindy Gym has been developed for children who are physically and emotionally ready to progress to the next level without the hands on support of a parent or guardian. Kids continue to develop their gymnastics skills, confidence and independence.Kindy Gym classes run for 60 minutes.

Advanced Kindy Gym - 4 to 5 years

Advanced Kindy Gym provides more complex instruction to further develop kid's gymnastics skills and use of the gymnastic apparatus. Advanced Kindy Gym classes run for 60 minutes.

Junior Gym - 5 to 6 years

Junior Gym is a vigorous and energetic class which expands on fundamental gymnastics movements and provides a stepping stone into formal Gymnastics training.Junior Gym classes are 60 minutes long.

Primary Gym - 7 to 8 years NEW CLASS

Primary gym
classes will increase your child's knowledge of gymnastics and develop their strength, coordination and conditioning using fundamental gymnastics movements.

Advanced Primary Gym - 9 to 10 years NEW CLASS

These classes will enhance your child's gymnastics skills in a social environment with children of their own age.

Tuesday, July 7, 2009

Health and Safety Tips for Summer Camp

Get your kids vaccinated.

Be sure your kids' vaccinations are up-to-date. Ask their doctor or nurse what vaccines are recommended for summer camp.

Encourage safe physical activities.


Children should get 60 minutes or more of physical activity on most days of the week. To help prevent injury, pack protective gear, such as helmets and life jackets, if the camp will not be providing them. Tell your kids not to swim if they are alone or if they have diarrhea.

Teach your kids to stay hydrated.

Explain to your kids that the human body needs fluids on a regular basis. They shouldn't wait until they feel thirsty to drink water. Encourage your kids to drink plenty of non-carbonated, sugar-free fluids throughout the day.

Teach your kids to avoid wild animals.

Teach kids that animals can carry diseases that are dangerous to people. Encourage them to enjoy watching them from a safe distance in their natural surroundings.

Pack protection.


Be sure your kids have plenty of insect repellent and sunscreen to wear to protect themselves from mosquitoes, ticks, and the sun. Pack layers of light-weight, light-colored clothes for hot days and blankets and warm clothes for cool nights.

Be proactive.


Find out how you will be notified if your child becomes ill and what the procedures are for caring for your child, if indicated. Teach your kids to cover their nose and mouth with a tissue when they cough or sneeze and to throw the tissue in the trash after using it; to wash their hands often with soap and water (or alcohol-based hand cleaners), especially after they cough or sneeze; and to avoid touching their eyes, nose or mouth. Also, tell your kids to notify camp staff if they or someone they come into contact with becomes ill.

Prepare your kids.

Make sure your kids are prepared. Teach them what to do in an emergency.Use this packing checklist to help start them out on the right foot at camp.

Monday, July 6, 2009

Water Safety

Protect the Ones You Love from Drowning

When we're enjoying time at the pool or beach, water safety may not always be the first thing on our minds. Yet, staying safe enables us to enjoy ourselves to the fullest-especially when it comes to protecting kids. Drowning is a leading cause of injury death for young children ages 1 to 4.

Put Water Safety First


We all want to help our children live to their full potential and keep them safe and secure. Thankfully, parents can play a key role in protecting the children they love from drowning. Here are some good first steps:

Fence it off. Install a four–sided isolation fence, with self–closing and self–latching gates, around backyard swimming pools. This can help keep children away from the area when a parent cannot supervise them. Pool fences should completely separate the house and play area from the pool.

Make life jackets a "must." Make sure kids wear life jackets in and around natural bodies of water, such as lakes or the ocean, even if they know how to swim.

Learn CPR. Learn cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and get recertified every two years. Immediate CPR can help a child stay alive and reduce the chance of brain damage.

Be on the look out. Supervise young children at all times around bathtubs, swimming pools, ponds, lakes, and other bodies of water.

Adults watching kids near water should avoid distracting activities like playing cards, reading books, or talking on the phone.

Saturday, July 4, 2009

A new world record for folding micro-ships in Germany


Peter Koppen of Germany holds one of the 12 paper ships, made from 5.5 by 8 millimetre paper sheets, he folded during the Impossibility Challenger in Dachau, north of Munich, June 21, 2009.


Koppen, 61, set a new world record by folding the 12 micro-ships in a time of 22 minutes and 5 seconds. The 15th annual Impossibility Challenger, where competitors attempt to break or make new World Records in unconventional and unusual disciplines, was held on Sunday.


Friday, July 3, 2009

Largest Petroleum Producing Country

Saudi Arabia is the world's largest producer and exporter of total petroleum liquids and is currently the world's second largest crude oil producer behind Russia. Saudi Arabia's economy remains heavily dependent on oil and petroleum-related industries, including petrochemicals and petroleum refining. The International Monetary Fund reported that in 2006, the last available data, oil export revenues accounted for around 90 percent of total Saudi export earnings and state revenues and above 40 percent of the country's gross domestic product (GDP).


Saudi Arabia's hydrocarbon sector operations are dominated by the state-owned oil company, Saudi Aramco. Saudi Aramco is the world's largest oil company in terms of proven or "booked" reserves and production of hydrocarbons. In addition, Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Petroleum and Mineral Resources and the Supreme Council for Petroleum and Minerals has oversight of the sector and Saudi Aramco directly. The Supreme Council, which is comprised of members of the royal family, industry leaders and government ministers, is responsible for petroleum and natural gas policy-making, including contract review, as well as Saudi Aramco's strategic planning. The Ministry is responsible for national planning in the area of energy and minerals, including petrochemicals.


Energy Consumption

Saudi Arabia is the fastest growing consumer of energy in the Middle East, particularly in the area of transportation fuels. Domestic consumption growth has been spurred by the economic boom due to historically high oil prices and large fuel subsidies. In 2005, Saudi Arabia was the 15th largest consumer of total primary energy, of which 60 percent was petroleum-based. The remainder was made up of natural gas, the growth of which has been limited by supply constraints.

Monday, June 29, 2009

Pizza Pork Chops

Greenhouse Tomatoes and mozzarella cheese give this old favourite a new Italian twist that you and your family are sure to love.


Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Servings: 6

Ingredients:

  • 8 oz (250 g) mozzarella cheese
  • 6 Ontario Pork Chops, cut 1-inch (2.5 cm) thick with pocket
  • 1 tbsp (15 mL) vegetable oil
  • 3 medium Ontario Greenhouse Tomatoes, chopped
  • 1-1/2 cups (375 mL) sliced Ontario Mushrooms
  • 1 medium Ontario Onion, chopped
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp (15 mL) olive oil
  • 1 tsp (5 mL) dried basil
  • 1/2 tsp (2 mL) dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp (2 mL) salt
  • 1/4 tsp (1 mL) pepper

Preparation:

Grate half the cheese; set aside. Slice remaining cheese into six 1/4-inch (5 mm) thick slices. Place 1 slice in each pork chop pocket; secure with one-half of a toothpick (this makes it easier to brown). Brown chops on each side in oil in large skillet. Remove to baking dish. In same skillet, cook tomatoes, mushrooms, onion, garlic, oil, basil, oregano, salt and pepper until thickened and vegetables are tender; pour over pork chops. Bake, covered, in 350°F (180°C) oven about 1 hour or until juices run clear when pork is pierced and just a hint of pink remains inside. Remove toothpicks. Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella.

Copper Statistics and Information


Copper is usually found in nature in association with sulfur. Pure copper metal is generally produced from a multistage process, beginning with the mining and concentrating of low-grade ores containing copper sulfide minerals, and followed by smelting and electrolytic refining to produce a pure copper cathode. An increasing share of copper is produced from acid leaching of oxidized ores. Copper is one of the oldest metals ever used and has been one of the important materials in the development of civilization.

Because of its properties, singularly or in combination, of high ductility, malleability, and thermal and electrical conductivity, and its resistance to corrosion, copper has become a major industrial metal, ranking third after iron and aluminum in terms of quantities consumed. Electrical uses of copper, including power transmission and generation, building wiring, telecommunication, and electrical and electronic products, account for about three quarters of total copper use.


Building construction is the single largest market, followed by electronics and electronic products, transportation, industrial machinery, and consumer and general products. Copper byproducts from manufacturing and obsolete copper products are readily recycled and contribute significantly to copper supply.

Friday, June 26, 2009

Wednesday, June 24, 2009

Tuesday, June 23, 2009

Monday, June 22, 2009

Pesticides Safely

Using Pesticides Safely
If you decide that the best solution to your pest problem is a pesticide, follow these tips when selecting and using a garden product:
1. Identify the pest problem
2. Find the product that solves the problem
3. Buy the right amount for your needs
4. Read the label carefully and use the product the right way
5. Pay attention to warnings
6. Prevent harm to the environment - never pour lawn and garden products down a drain
7. Store and dispose of pesticides safely.

WEAR PROTECTIVE CLOTHING:
Pesticides can enter the body through the skin, the eyes, the mouth, and the lungs. Protective clothing (including coveralls, apron, broad-rimmed waterproof hat, boots, rubber gloves, goggles or face shields, and respirators) provides protection against pesticide exposures. The pesticide label should tell you what protective equipment is necessary. Wear it!
DON'T EAT, DRINK OR SMOKE AROUND PESTICIDES:
Be careful not to wipe your face with your shirt sleeves. This could put the pesticide directly onto your bare skin. Wash your hands before eating, drinking, chewing gum, using tobacco, or using the toilet.
IF YOU BECOME ILL:
while working with pesticides, stop work immediately and seek fresh air. Notify your supervisor or a fellow employee that you are ill and you may need to seek medical attention. Symptoms may include irritation of the skin, eyes, or respiratory tract; headache; nausea; dizziness; and blurred vision.
STORE PESTICIDES PROPERLY:
Pesticides should be stored in a properly labeled container with the label clearly visible and should be kept in a locked storage area. Never store pesticides in old bottles or food containers where they could be mistaken for food or drink for people or animals. Never store pesticides near food, feed, or seed. If possible, pesticides should also be stored in a cool and dry location.
DISPOSE OF PESTICIDES PROPERLY:
Leftover pesticide can be disposed of in an approved landfill designed to handle pesticide disposal. Triple-rinsed empty pesticide containers can usually be disposed of in landfills with household trash. Pesticides should not be disposed of where they may enter water used for drinking or washing, fish ponds, or rivers. Do not reuse the original containers for any purpose, especially NOT as drinking water containers.

Friday, June 19, 2009

The Montezuma Quail

In the spring of 2005, sightings of the Montezuma quail were documented in the Chisos Mountains for the first time since a reintroduction attempt over thirty years ago. This was the first confirmed sighting in the park since a release in Pine Canyon in the early 1970’s. A Texas Parks and Wildlife biologist who has studied them in different parts of the U.S. was the first to sight a specimen within the park. Research is ongoing to learn more about the extent of this population.

Native to the Chisos Mountains, the Montezuma quail were extirpated from their mountain habitat in the 1930s.

Thursday, June 18, 2009

Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty

Mid-Sussex
Over half of the District lies within Areas Of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB's), with parts of the Sussex Downs AONB and High Weald AONB falling in Mid Sussex. Designation of the Sussex Downs AONB was confirmed in 1966 followed by the High Weald AONB in 1983. Designation as an AONB gives formal recognition to the national importance of the landscape character of these areas. The primary purpose of designation is to conserve and enhance natural beauty.

High Weald

The High Weald is characterised by dispersed settlement; ancient routeways; an abundance of small ancient woods; gills and shaws; and small irregularly shaped and productive fields. They are all draped over a deeply incised and ridge landform of clays and sandstones, and are loosely related to socio-economic characteristics that have roots deep in history.

Sussex Downs

The Sussex Downs offers some of the most spectacular and evocative landscape in Southern England - sweeping chalklands where earth meets sky, precipitous scarp slopes, rigged sandstone uplands and intimate clay vales. It is a protected landscape of diversity and contrast.

Management of the AONB's

The Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000 placed a statutory duty for Management Plans to be prepared for AONB's.The High Weald AONB Joint Advisory Committee of which Mid Sussex is a partner has prepared the High Weald AONB Management Plan 2004. The management plan sets out local authority policy for the AONB and will be used to assess how public bodies, statutory undertakers and holders of public office fulfil their duty to have regard for the purpose of conserving and enhancing the natural beauty of the High Weald. The Council adopted this plan in January 2004 and has regard to it when considering the suitability of proposals for development in the High Weald AONB.

Wednesday, June 17, 2009

Psychology Help - For Your Peace of Mind


You’re Not Alone

Perhaps you are seeking treatment for depression, stress or anxiety. You or your family may be considering counseling or therapy to improve the quality of important relationships. There are many reasons people turn to psychologists. If you are reaching out for help from a psychologist, you are not alone. Psychological problems affect millions of people worldwide. They are more prevalent than cancer, diabetes, arthritis, and traffic accidents and second only to heart conditions. Psychologists are specially trained to assist this large population, and their services help sufferers effectively deal with their problems so that they can live happier, healthier lives. Every year thousands of Californians visit professional psychologists for help in better understanding themselves and others and in dealing with personal problems. If you think you may need to see a psychologist, this brochure can help you. It will explain your rights as a patient, provide guidance for choosing a psychologist and explain what a psychologist should and should NOT do. It also will tell you what to do if you think your psychologist has acted unprofessionally.

How Can a Psychologist Help You?

Psychologists provide many important services. They develop,give and interpret psychological tests. For example, they perform intelligence and achievement evaluations, disability evaluations,workers’ compensation evaluations, fitness-for-duty evaluations,and child-custody evaluations. They also help patients understand and resolve various psychological problems like depression, anxiety and substance abuse. They may provide treatment to individuals (adults and children), couples, families,groups, organizations or businesses using behavior modification, psychotherapy, hypnosis or consultation.They provide these services in in-patient psychiatric hospitals, day treatment programs, and out-patient offices.When providing assessment or treatment, psychologists take into account personal characteristics that make each patient unique. These factors include age, gender, gender identity, race, ethnicity, culture,national origin, religion, sexual orientation, disability,language, and socioeconomic status. Psychologists’ understanding and sensitivity to the impact of these various qualities allows psychologists to provide service to many different people. Although psychologists in California do not prescribe medications, they may be helpful in providing appropriate physician or psychiatric referrals. Additionally, psychologists play key roles in management consultation for businesses and other organizations.

Monday, June 15, 2009

Market Access and Compliance

Market Access and Compliance (MAC) identifies and overcomes trade barriers, resolves trade policy issues, and ensures that our trading partners fully meet their obligations under our trade agreements. MAC ensures access to world markets for American companies and workers so they can compete on a "level playing field."


The staff of Market Access and Compliance is ready to help you.

MAC's country desk officers are experts on the commercial, economic, and political climates in their assigned countries. They focus on resolving trade complaints and market access issues, such as:

  • Intellectual Property and Piracy
  • Quotas
  • Standards
  • Customs
  • Transparency and Contract Sanctity
  • National Treatment
  • Good Governance
  • Sanitary and Phytosanitary Standards
MAC coordinates efforts with ITA's Commercial Service staff and industry sector experts, as well as with other foreign policy and trade-related government agencies.

MAC's Trade Compliance Center (TCC) works with large and small businesses to ensure that they receive the benefits of the more than 270 trade agreements that open up foreign markets to U.S. goods and services. If you believe your company is being treated unfairly in a foreign market, contact the TCC by email or visit TCC On-Line, which contains a wealth of information about U.S. exporter rights under our trade agreements.

Wednesday, June 10, 2009

How a toddler's diet is different


Although toddlers can eat the same food as adults, before they're two years old children can't eat large amounts of food at one sitting. So, until then, give your child meals and snacks packed with calories and nutrients such as:

  1. full-fat milk and dairy foods
  2. meat
  3. eggs


Don't forget to give them fruit and vegetables and starchy foods as well.

But if you tend to eat high fibre foods, remember that young children's stomachs can't cope with foods such as wholemeal pasta and brown rice. Also, too much fibre can sometimes reduce the amount of minerals they can absorb, such as calcium and iron.

By the time they're five years old, young children should be eating family food, which is more bulky as it contains lots of starchy foods and plenty of fruit and vegetables. But make sure it doesn't contain too much saturated fat, which is found in butter, hard-fat spreads, cheese, fatty meat and meat products, biscuits, pastry and cakes.

Monday, June 8, 2009

Healthy Eyes


Having a comprehensive dilated eye exam is one of the best things you can do to make sure that you're seeing the best you can and that you're keeping your eyes healthy.

Millions of people have problems with their vision every year. Some of these problems can cause permanent vision loss and even blindness, while others are common problems that can be easily corrected with glasses or contact lenses.

What is a comprehensive dilated eye exam?


A comprehensive dilated eye exam is a painless procedure in which an eye care professional examines your eyes to look for common vision problems and eye diseases, many of which have no early warning signs. Regular comprehensive eye exams can help you protect your sight and make sure that you are seeing your best.

What are common vision problems?


Some of the most common vision problems are uncorrected refractive errors. These include myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), astigmatism, and presbyopia.

What can I do to keep my eyes healthy?

Read these tips for keeping your eyes healthy and your vision at its best.