Beijing shows off new, expensive airport
BEIJING - Beijing showed off its new multibillion-dollar airport terminal Wednesday — a mammoth structure of glass and steel with a gracefully sloping roof that the owners said is meant to impress visitors to China's capital for the 2008 Olympics.
Terminal 3 at the Beijing Capital International Airport is a centerpiece project for the Olympics designed to relieve the overloaded airport's other two terminals and accommodate the city's torrid growth for the next seven years, executives with the airport's state-run holding company said at a tour for foreign media.
The terminal, which will be opened for testing in February, is outfitted with a state-of-the-art-baggage handling system, a rail terminal to carry passengers into the city and gates and a runway capable of handling Airbus' huge A380 superjumbo.
The terminal building alone cost 21 billion yuan (US$2.8 billion; €2 billion), 35 billion yuan (US$4.6 billion; €3.4 billion) with all the related infrastructure added in, the executives said.
The terminal is an "important non-competition venue" for the Olympics, said Zhang Zhizhong, general manager of Capital Airport Holding Co. He said it is intended to "give an excellent impression when visitors arrive at the airport."
Designed by British architect Norman Foster, the building attempts to combine traditional architectural elements with up-to-date technology. Its red columns and muted gold roof are meant to evoke Beijing's imperial palaces and temples while the US$250 million (€180 million) baggage system, made by German engineering giant Siemens AG, can handle 19,000 pieces of luggage an hour, the executives said.
Beijing desperately needs a new airport, with the double-digit economic growth of recent years outstripping city planners' original projections and stressing the capital's infrastructure. The capital airport's second terminal, which opened eight years ago, quickly reached its limits, and long lines for check-in and flight delays.
Sunday, March 30, 2008
food storage tips in kitchens
In pursuit of the perfect pantry - food storage tips in kitchens - Brief Article
Tips for creating a food-storage area that fits your requirements
The pantry is staging a comeback. As more people buy in bulk from discount stores and use a wider array of cooking appliances, they need more kitchen storage space. "Pantries are popular because storage is an absolutely critical issue today," says designer Mary Jo Peterson, consultant to the National Kitchen & Bath Association. "Most people are constantly struggling to find more space in their homes."
Design tips
We asked experts around the West for their tips on organizing pantries.
* Think small. Pantries don't have to be large or expensive. Is there a small, underutilized space in your kitchen that could be converted to this purpose? "Narrow pantries are a good way to use space in your kitchen that otherwise would go to waste," says kitchen designer Michelle Minch of Moving Mountains Design in Denver. Many home stores sell small, inexpensive modular pantry units that you can put together yourself. For instance, IKEA's Elemental Pantry-1 foot wide by 7 feet tall by 2 feet deep-sells for about $120.
* Think versatile. As you and your family grow older, your storage needs are likely to change. That means using adjustable shelves, wire racks that can be added or removed from pantry doors, and multiuse baskets that can be stacked and moved. For additional space efficiency, consider such adaptable items as 12- to 16-inch-wide wire baskets, which can easily hook to and hang from shelves.
Tips for creating a food-storage area that fits your requirements
The pantry is staging a comeback. As more people buy in bulk from discount stores and use a wider array of cooking appliances, they need more kitchen storage space. "Pantries are popular because storage is an absolutely critical issue today," says designer Mary Jo Peterson, consultant to the National Kitchen & Bath Association. "Most people are constantly struggling to find more space in their homes."
Design tips
We asked experts around the West for their tips on organizing pantries.
* Think small. Pantries don't have to be large or expensive. Is there a small, underutilized space in your kitchen that could be converted to this purpose? "Narrow pantries are a good way to use space in your kitchen that otherwise would go to waste," says kitchen designer Michelle Minch of Moving Mountains Design in Denver. Many home stores sell small, inexpensive modular pantry units that you can put together yourself. For instance, IKEA's Elemental Pantry-1 foot wide by 7 feet tall by 2 feet deep-sells for about $120.
* Think versatile. As you and your family grow older, your storage needs are likely to change. That means using adjustable shelves, wire racks that can be added or removed from pantry doors, and multiuse baskets that can be stacked and moved. For additional space efficiency, consider such adaptable items as 12- to 16-inch-wide wire baskets, which can easily hook to and hang from shelves.
Victorian garden edging tiles
Victorian garden edging tiles
Among the many materials used to edge walks, parterres, and planting beds in England in the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries, the most popular was dwarf, or edging, box (Buxus sempervirens Suffruticosa). This dense, slow-growing, evergreen shrub was easy to propagate; it thrived in a variety of growing conditions; and it resisted insects and diseases. Often referred to as Dutch or English box, this popular edging plant was clipped in April and July to maintain the desired height of five to six inches. As late as 1834, John Claudius Loudon's Encyclopoedia of Gardeninq noted that dwarf box was superior to every other edging.
While dwarf box remained in common use throughout the first half of the nineteenth century, by 1843 there are references to the use of tiles as a substitute for box. The earliest of these occurs in Jane Loudon's Gardening for Ladies; and Companion to The Flower Garden:
Edgings are lines of plants, generally evergreen, to separate walks from beds or borders. The plant in most universal use for this purpose in British gardens is the dwarf Box.... Edgings to beds and borders are also formed of other materials, such as lines of bricks, tiles, or states, or narrow strips of stone, or even of wood.. .. Edgings oldies, to be kept securely in their places, should be set in concealed brickwork; otherwise they are apt to get out of place and to have a ragged and temporar
Among the many materials used to edge walks, parterres, and planting beds in England in the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries, the most popular was dwarf, or edging, box (Buxus sempervirens Suffruticosa). This dense, slow-growing, evergreen shrub was easy to propagate; it thrived in a variety of growing conditions; and it resisted insects and diseases. Often referred to as Dutch or English box, this popular edging plant was clipped in April and July to maintain the desired height of five to six inches. As late as 1834, John Claudius Loudon's Encyclopoedia of Gardeninq noted that dwarf box was superior to every other edging.
While dwarf box remained in common use throughout the first half of the nineteenth century, by 1843 there are references to the use of tiles as a substitute for box. The earliest of these occurs in Jane Loudon's Gardening for Ladies; and Companion to The Flower Garden:
Edgings are lines of plants, generally evergreen, to separate walks from beds or borders. The plant in most universal use for this purpose in British gardens is the dwarf Box.... Edgings to beds and borders are also formed of other materials, such as lines of bricks, tiles, or states, or narrow strips of stone, or even of wood.. .. Edgings oldies, to be kept securely in their places, should be set in concealed brickwork; otherwise they are apt to get out of place and to have a ragged and temporar
Best Accommodations For Hawaii Family Vacations
Best Accommodations For Hawaii Family Vacations
Are you and your family interested in taking a Hawaiian family vacation? If you are, you should know that you have an unlimited number of options. One of those options involves where you and your family would like to stay when visiting Hawaii. For information on popular Hawaii family vacation accommodations, you may want to continue reading on.
Vacation resorts are one of the best choices for families looking to vacation in Hawaii. One of the many reasons why vacation resorts are nice for family vacations is because they often have a number of onsite activities. These activities may include golfing, access to a children's game room, swimming, and so forth. Many Hawaii resorts are designed for parents traveling with children.
Another one of the many reasons why Hawaii resorts may be the best option for you and your family is because of the onsite services that you may gain access to. It is not uncommon for Hawaii resorts, especially those luxury in nature, to extend a number of services to their guests. These services may include room service delivery of foods, a laundry service, as well as a childcare service. If you are traveling with young children or if you just want a break, a childcare service may be ideal for you.
Although there are a number of reasons as to why you should book a stay at a Hawaii resort, for your next family vacation, you should also know that there are a number of downsides to doing so as well. One of those downsides is the potential for crowding. Vacation resorts often have a number of guests, especially during popular vacations months. With that in mind, a large number of guests may also have its benefits. For instance, you and your family could make new friends. This is something that your children may love.
In addition Hawaii vacation resorts, you also may want to book at stay at a Hawaii vacation home. Hawaii vacation homes are nice for family vacations, as they give you the ultimate level of privacy. They also tend to resemble traditional homes, giving off a home-like feel. This is good for parents who are traveling with young children or first time travelers.
Another one of the many reasons why you should examine vacation home rentals, for your next Hawaii family vacation is because of freedom. When renting a Hawaii vacation home, you may have a backyard or even easy access to a beach. This enables you and your family to come and go as you please. You also can enjoy an unlimited number of activities, without having to worry about the noise level or how the person in the next room is feeling. This, alone, gives many parents comfort and peace of mind.
As with Hawaii resorts, you will also find that Hawaii vacation rentals have a few downsides as well. One of those downsides is the cost. Hawaii vacation rentals can be costly. With that in mind, it is important to remember that cost depends on a number of different factors, including size and location. If you are looking to take a Hawaii family vacation on a budget, you may want to examine smaller vacation homes or those that are located inland, as they are often cheaper in price.
You also have the option of staying at a Hawaii hotel. Hawaii hotels resemble Hawaii resorts; however, they don't always have as many onsite activities or services. They are, however, ideal for those who are vacationing on a budget. If you are interested in getting out and seeing Hawaii, as opposed to staying at your hotel, this may be a nice option for you.
Hawaii condo rentals are another popular choice for vacationers in Hawaii. Although you may want to take time to examine them, you may find Hawaii resorts or vacation homes a better choice. This is because many condo complexes are designed with adults in mind. You may still want to take the time to examine condo rentals, as you may be surprised with what you are able to find available.
Of course, the decision as to where you want to stay for your next Hawaii family vacation is your decision to make. When making that decision though, you may want to keep the above mentioned points in mind.
Are you and your family interested in taking a Hawaiian family vacation? If you are, you should know that you have an unlimited number of options. One of those options involves where you and your family would like to stay when visiting Hawaii. For information on popular Hawaii family vacation accommodations, you may want to continue reading on.
Vacation resorts are one of the best choices for families looking to vacation in Hawaii. One of the many reasons why vacation resorts are nice for family vacations is because they often have a number of onsite activities. These activities may include golfing, access to a children's game room, swimming, and so forth. Many Hawaii resorts are designed for parents traveling with children.
Another one of the many reasons why Hawaii resorts may be the best option for you and your family is because of the onsite services that you may gain access to. It is not uncommon for Hawaii resorts, especially those luxury in nature, to extend a number of services to their guests. These services may include room service delivery of foods, a laundry service, as well as a childcare service. If you are traveling with young children or if you just want a break, a childcare service may be ideal for you.
Although there are a number of reasons as to why you should book a stay at a Hawaii resort, for your next family vacation, you should also know that there are a number of downsides to doing so as well. One of those downsides is the potential for crowding. Vacation resorts often have a number of guests, especially during popular vacations months. With that in mind, a large number of guests may also have its benefits. For instance, you and your family could make new friends. This is something that your children may love.
In addition Hawaii vacation resorts, you also may want to book at stay at a Hawaii vacation home. Hawaii vacation homes are nice for family vacations, as they give you the ultimate level of privacy. They also tend to resemble traditional homes, giving off a home-like feel. This is good for parents who are traveling with young children or first time travelers.
Another one of the many reasons why you should examine vacation home rentals, for your next Hawaii family vacation is because of freedom. When renting a Hawaii vacation home, you may have a backyard or even easy access to a beach. This enables you and your family to come and go as you please. You also can enjoy an unlimited number of activities, without having to worry about the noise level or how the person in the next room is feeling. This, alone, gives many parents comfort and peace of mind.
As with Hawaii resorts, you will also find that Hawaii vacation rentals have a few downsides as well. One of those downsides is the cost. Hawaii vacation rentals can be costly. With that in mind, it is important to remember that cost depends on a number of different factors, including size and location. If you are looking to take a Hawaii family vacation on a budget, you may want to examine smaller vacation homes or those that are located inland, as they are often cheaper in price.
You also have the option of staying at a Hawaii hotel. Hawaii hotels resemble Hawaii resorts; however, they don't always have as many onsite activities or services. They are, however, ideal for those who are vacationing on a budget. If you are interested in getting out and seeing Hawaii, as opposed to staying at your hotel, this may be a nice option for you.
Hawaii condo rentals are another popular choice for vacationers in Hawaii. Although you may want to take time to examine them, you may find Hawaii resorts or vacation homes a better choice. This is because many condo complexes are designed with adults in mind. You may still want to take the time to examine condo rentals, as you may be surprised with what you are able to find available.
Of course, the decision as to where you want to stay for your next Hawaii family vacation is your decision to make. When making that decision though, you may want to keep the above mentioned points in mind.
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Saturday, March 29, 2008
two conditions known as
(NewsTarget) There is often confusion surrounding the difference between two conditions known as diverticulosis and diverticulitis. I'm going to explain the difference and reveal how to treat the symptoms of diverticulitis naturally.
Diverticula are small, pea-sized, bulging pouches in the digestive tract. While diverticula can form anywhere, most occur in your large intestine and are many times found in people that experience frequent constipation.
Having diverticula in the intestines is known as diverticulosis. This condition is many times unrecognized by the person affected because diverticulosis seldom causes any problems. Every once in a while however, diverticula can become infected or inflamed. This condition is called diverticulitis.
Many experts believe that a low-fiber diet is a key contributor to diverticulitis. Reason being is lack of fiber in the diet can make stool sometimes harder to pass. The excess pressure can result in certain areas of the colon to become weakened and collapse. This results in marble-sized pouches (diverticula) protruding through the colon wall. These pouches, which are small at first, but become larger gradually; typically develop in the sigmoid and descending colon. These are the lower portions of your large intestine just above your rectum. They are often the result of straining during bowel movements over a number of years.
Sometimes stool can become lodged in one of the pouches and the result can be an infection. Small tears or perforations can also develop in an infected pouch, which can lead to an infection within your abdomen (peritonitis). A person may also develop a collection of pus called an abscess if the infection is limited to an area around the wall of your colon where the diverticula are inflamed.
Diverticulitis can be acute or chronic. The majority of people affected are usually between the ages of 50 and 90. One reason that older people are generally more affected is that the walls of the large intestine tend to weaken with age.
For many people, symptoms are non-existent or mistaken for simple indigestion. For those who do experience symptoms, a pain in the lower left side of the abdomen is common. The pain is typically severe and surfaces rather abruptly. However, sometimes a person can experience a mild pain that can worsen over several days and have a fluctuating intensity.
Other typical symptoms include abdominal tenderness, fever, nausea, and constipation or diarrhea.
Less common signs and symptoms of diverticulitis may include:
- Vomiting
- Bloating
- Frequent Urination
- Difficulty or pain while urinating
- Rectal Bleeding
- Tenderness in the abdomen
- Blood in the Stool
While the reason is not exactly known, there is some evidence that links smoking & stress to symptoms becoming worse. Other factors that increase risk of diverticulitis are disease in the genes, gallbladder disease, obesity & coronary artery disease.
The best steps you can take in treating diverticulitis have to do with your lifestyle.
A high fiber diet has been shown to be protective against diverticular disease. You'll need at least 20 to 35 grams of fiber a day to help prevent problems from diverticulosis. Consume fresh fruits and vegetables, cereals that are high in fiber and bran. Be sure to drink plenty of pure water each day, as a high fiber diet will not be effective without adequate water consumption.
Studies have also shown physical activity, specifically jogging or running, to protect against symptomatic diverticular disease.
Avoid foods such as celery and corn as these foods contain indigestible roughage and use bran to prevent constipation.
Eat a diet with your primary source of protein being from fish & vegetables. Stay away from grains, seeds or nuts, as these foods can be hard to digest which results in bloating & gas. Other foods that should be avoided include dairy products, red meat, fried foods, spices, sugar products as well as processed & refined foods.
Also remember to:
- Try not to strain during bowel movements
- Avoid alcohol
- Exercise moderately
- Drink at least eight glasses of pure water a day
- Avoid smoking
Establish a regular bowel routine by spending at least 10 minutes a day trying to have a bowel movement at approximately the same time.
Avoid extremely hot or cold foods and fluids (which cause gas).
When you feel an attack or pain coming on, give yourself a cleansing enema with 2 quarts of luke-warm water mixed with the juice from a fresh squeezed lemon. This will aid in ridding the colon of undigested food that has been trapped and will also relieve pain.
Aside from lifestyle changes, supplementing with the following can also be helpful:
Acidophilus (Take as directed on label) - Helps support a healthy intestinal tract (gut) and replaces the flora in the small intestine, primarily to improve assimilation.
Fiber (Take as directed on label) - Helps prevent constipation. Also prevents infection.
Super Greens Formula - Garden of Life provides an excellent greens formula that is high in chlorophyll, which is extremely beneficial for this condition. Diverticulosis sufferers also seem to do better when chlorella is part of the diet. Chlorella will provide you with all the benefits of magnesium, carotenoids, chlorophyll and much more.
Vitamin B Complex (100 mg 3 times daily) - Aids in proper digestion.
Proteolytic Enzymes (Take as directed on label, between meals) - Aids in digestion & reduces inflammation in the colon.
Essential Fatty Acids (Take as directed on label) - Aids in protecting the cells that line the wall of the colon.
L-Glutamine (500 mg twice daily. Take with water or juice but never with milk) - Maintains the absorption surfaces of the gut called the villi.
Vitamin C - Anti-inflammatory and boosts immunity. I recommend a minimum of 3,000 to 8,000 mg daily in divided doses.
Garlic - Aids in digestion and is a natural antibiotic. I personally use Kyolic Aged Garlic Extract by Wakunaga, which is a high-quality odorless organic supplement. Take 2 capsules 3 times daily.
Alfalfa (2,000 mg in capsules or tincture) - Natural source of vitamin K and essential minerals that most people with intestinal disorders are lacking. Also contains chlorophyll, which aids in healing.
Aloe Vera Juice (Drink ½ cup 3 times a day) - promotes healing of the inflamed areas.
The Way To Live One Hundred Years!
Ayurveda Or The Science Of Life Shows The Way To Live One Hundred Years! - Part I
The term Ayurveda consists of two words, namely Ayus and Veda meaning The Science of Life. The Hindu religion is not only a religion, but also a philosophy, not only a religion and philosophy but it is a way of life- so says Somerset Maugham in his book Points of View.
The Hindu religion places four ideals before the mankind.
1) Dharma meaning Righteousness
2) Artha meaning Wealth
3) Kama meaning Desire
4) Moksha meaning Liberation.
Dharma is associated with the soul itself which is to be inferred from its results. Artha is the attainment of wealth like gold, money etc. Kama is the fulfillment of desire like embracing women. Moksha is liberation from the world.
In order to attain the above four, man has to live long. Out of the three basic desires namely desire to live, desire to earn and desire to perform virtuous acts, one should give priority to the desire for longevity; because with the end of life there is end of everything. There are four ages namely Satya Yuga or Satya age, Treta Yuga or Treta Age, Dvapapra Yuga or Dvaprara Age and Kali Yuga or Kali Age.
Human beings having disciplined life were enjoying a span of life for 400 years in Satya Age. In Treta Age it was reduced to 300 years. In Dvapara Age it was 200 years. And in the present Kali Age it is 100 years. A cart with normal qualities and carriage comes to the stage of destruction, only after the expiry of the specified period. So the life of a person with undefined span of life is destroyed even before the attainment of the normal span of life due to his own faults so says Agnivesa, the great sage. To live happily one should take a wholesome diet. There are ten principles underlying the wholesome diet and its intake.
1)The food should be hot.
2)The food should be unctuous
3)The food should be taken in proper quantity
4)The food should be taken only after the previous meal is digested
5)The food- ingredients should not be contradictory in their potency.
6)The food should be taken in a pleasant place with required accessories
7)The food should not be taken in excessive hurry.
8)The process of intake should not be exceedingly slow.
9)While eating, one should neither talk nor laugh; during this time one should concentrate on eating only.
10)Only such food should be taken which is wholesome to the physical constitution and psychic temperament of an individual. (The English translation of the verses of Caraka Samhita given in this series of articles is by Dr Ram Karan Sharma and Vaidya Bhagwan Dash).
One who is desirous of living for hundred years should always perform certain noble acts with proper care. The acts that are to be performed will be enumerated in the next article.
6 Truths about Ayurveda
6 Truths about Ayurveda
6 Truths about Ayurveda
#1 Ayurvedic medicine is less effective.
Truth: It is true that this method of treatment calls for more patience and endurance. The effectiveness can be cited by this example.
Whenever there is a tear in a cloth or a hole in a pitcher, we intend to rectify it using the similar material that it is made of. Similarly any fault in human body also calls to be corrected by use of natural resources, as much as possible.
#2 Ayurvedic medicines are slow in showing results.
Truth: The irony lies with the delay from patients side. Most patients visiting holistic practitioners take their time in trying other systems of medicine so as to derive a faster result. This not only delays the effect of medicine, it also hampers the working of the drug. This is because the patient has either tried much more complicated and powerful combination of drugs, the effect of which needs to be neutralized first. Or in the mean time, his malady has substantially become deep rooted and taken chronic form. It may at times show to work slowly, but as the fable goes slow and steady wins the race.
# 3 Ayurvedic medicine has side effects.
Truth: Any side effect from medicine, of any therapy, may result from the misuse of drug, either in processing or in prescribing. As far as side effect or after effect is concerned, I believe time tested medicines are safer provided the former two factors are precise. The safety of Ayurvedic medicine and mode of treatment may be advocated in 3 pints.
1. In Ayurveda the very first principle in treating a disease is to do away with the basic cause, and also to see that no new ailment emerges as a consequence. A disease is eradicated from its roots. 2. Ayurveda insists that medicine be centered at the patient, than on the disease. The mind, body and soul are considered a tripod and medicine is prescribed for overall health augmentation. 3. Since Ayourvda deals with preparations mainly from herbs and natural resources, it is a harmless therapy with least or no side effects.
#4 Ayurvedic medicines are for older patients.
Truth: There is no known limitation in this form of treatment. It is equally suited to all age groups. Ayurveda could be considered a boon for children when their body system is yet tender and in process of immunity building. The natural products do not interfere with their body resistance and at the same time tends to be more safe and comforting.
#5 Ayurvedic medicines are just an alternative.
Truth: Ayurvedic system of medicine is incorrectly quoted as an alternate therapy as this has always been the most ancient and complete system of medicine. Its been existing before the birth of other medical therapies. The word Ayurveda is itself derived from Ayush which means life and Veda which means science. There fore, Ayurveda is the complete science of life. It is a treasure to provide every individual a life full of health, vigor and vitality.
6 Truths about Ayurveda
#1 Ayurvedic medicine is less effective.
Truth: It is true that this method of treatment calls for more patience and endurance. The effectiveness can be cited by this example.
Whenever there is a tear in a cloth or a hole in a pitcher, we intend to rectify it using the similar material that it is made of. Similarly any fault in human body also calls to be corrected by use of natural resources, as much as possible.
#2 Ayurvedic medicines are slow in showing results.
Truth: The irony lies with the delay from patients side. Most patients visiting holistic practitioners take their time in trying other systems of medicine so as to derive a faster result. This not only delays the effect of medicine, it also hampers the working of the drug. This is because the patient has either tried much more complicated and powerful combination of drugs, the effect of which needs to be neutralized first. Or in the mean time, his malady has substantially become deep rooted and taken chronic form. It may at times show to work slowly, but as the fable goes slow and steady wins the race.
# 3 Ayurvedic medicine has side effects.
Truth: Any side effect from medicine, of any therapy, may result from the misuse of drug, either in processing or in prescribing. As far as side effect or after effect is concerned, I believe time tested medicines are safer provided the former two factors are precise. The safety of Ayurvedic medicine and mode of treatment may be advocated in 3 pints.
1. In Ayurveda the very first principle in treating a disease is to do away with the basic cause, and also to see that no new ailment emerges as a consequence. A disease is eradicated from its roots. 2. Ayurveda insists that medicine be centered at the patient, than on the disease. The mind, body and soul are considered a tripod and medicine is prescribed for overall health augmentation. 3. Since Ayourvda deals with preparations mainly from herbs and natural resources, it is a harmless therapy with least or no side effects.
#4 Ayurvedic medicines are for older patients.
Truth: There is no known limitation in this form of treatment. It is equally suited to all age groups. Ayurveda could be considered a boon for children when their body system is yet tender and in process of immunity building. The natural products do not interfere with their body resistance and at the same time tends to be more safe and comforting.
#5 Ayurvedic medicines are just an alternative.
Truth: Ayurvedic system of medicine is incorrectly quoted as an alternate therapy as this has always been the most ancient and complete system of medicine. Its been existing before the birth of other medical therapies. The word Ayurveda is itself derived from Ayush which means life and Veda which means science. There fore, Ayurveda is the complete science of life. It is a treasure to provide every individual a life full of health, vigor and vitality.
Prostate Cancer
Prostate Cancer Symptoms And Treatments
Prostate cancer is one of the most common type of cancer affecting 1 in every 6 males. In its early stages, prostate cancer has few symptoms and many of the symptoms associated with this disease are also symptoms found in other less serious illnesses. Prevalent symptoms of prostate problems which may or may not signal cancer include: frequent urination, bloody urine, burning urination, lower back pain or pain in the pelvis or upper thighs, blood in semen, pain during ejaculation, stopping and starting urination along with not being able to urinate.
The treatment course for prostate cancer differs depending on the location and size of the tumor as well as the patients health. In some cases, if the cancer is a slow growing one and you are advanced in age, the treatment may simply be that of watchful waiting. If the cancer is not causing any symptoms, then your physician may opt to simply keep and eye on its growth. This will entail a PSA blood test every few months as well as biopsies every year to see if and how fast it is growing. If it starts to grow faster, additional treatment may be recommended.
Some treatments for prostate cancer include:
A surgical procedure called a radical prostatectomy may be done to remove the cancer provided it has not spread outside of the prostate. The whole gland and surrounding tissue is removed in the hopes of removing all the cancer.
Radiotherapy employs x-rays to treat cancer and is relatively pain free. During this course of treatment, radiation is pointed towards your prostate in the hopes of shrinking or even eliminating the cancer. This technique can have adverse effects such as impotance and diarrhea.
Brachytherapy, is a method of radiotherapy on which something is implanted in the patient to treat the cancer. This method of treatment involves less visits to the hospital as opposed to radiation therapy (which is typically done every day) although it does require a little external radiotherapy also.
Hormone therapy is used to lower the level of androgens which cause prostate cancer to grow. This treatment is mostly used in men whose cancer has spread or returned after earlier treatments. While it will not cure the cancer, it can shrink it or slow its growth and may be used in conjunction with other treatments.
Chemotherapy is typically not effective against prostate cancer although newer drugs developed in recent years have shown the ability to relieve symptoms in men with advanced prostate cancer. Chemotherapy may be employed if the cancer has spread outside the prostate in order to shrink the cancer or slow its growth.
While many prostate symptoms indicate a problem other than cancer, it is vital that you see your doctor if you experience any of the symptoms listed above. Prompt treatment is your best chance for a cure.
Beta Carotin
Beta Carotin
Beta Carotin is one the Carotinoide existing over 400 in nature. Carotinoide are coloring materials, which arise in numerous plants. Beta Carotin is the most frequently occurring and most well-known Carotinoid.beta Carotin molecule can theoretically into two Vitamin of A-molecules be split. Therefore it is called also Provitamin A. however only one part of the beta Carotin in the human body to Vitamin A is converted. The remainder is stored. In addition the portion of the beta Carotin in the body, converted to Vitamin A, of the status already existing is regulated, so that it can come to no Vitamin A intoxication. Only about 50 Carotinoide possess Provitamin A-effect, and of it beta Carotin is the most active
The best sources of the beta Carotin are orange low-yellow and/or fruits and vegetables as well as dark-green sheet vegetables like for example:
* yellow and/or orange vegetable: Carrots, Bataten (sweet potatoes),; * yellow and/or orange fruits: Apricots, Cantaloupe melons, Papayas, Mangos, Carambolas, nectarines, peaches; * dark-green sheet vegetables: Spinach, Brokkoli, Endivien, Chicor, e, Kresse * as well as the sheets of red patches, white carrots and dandelion; * other vegetable and fruit which is applicable as source: Tomatoes, asparagus, peas, Kohl, Mais, Sauerkirschen, Pflaumen.
The content of beta Carotin in fruit and vegetables can vary: It depends on the respective sort, the season or the degree the ripe one. The bio-availability of beta Carotin from fruits and vegetables depends on the preparation before the consumption. Any referring to the actual beta Carotin content can be thus only estimations.
The following short overview points the beta Carotin content out per 100 9 edible portion:
* Vegetable: Carrots (6.6 mg), Kresse (5.6 mg), spinach (4.9 mg), Brokkoli (1.5 mg), tomatoes (0.5 mg). Fruits: Mangos (2.9 mg), melons (2.0 mg), apricots (1.6 mg), peaches (0.5 mg), oranges (0.1 mg).
Storage in the body Gallensalze are needed for the absorption of the beta Carotin in the upper small intestine. Many factors in the food, so for example fat and proteins, can affect this admission. Approximately ten to fifty per cent of the entire supplied BetaCarotin in the Gastro intestinal tract are absorbed. The portion of the absorbed beta Carotin is reduced with rising supply. Within the intestinal mucosa (Mukosa) beta Carotin is converted with the help of the enzyme Beta-Carotin-15,15' Dioxygenase into Vitamin A (Retinol). This mechanism is adjusted by the Vitamin A status of the respective person. As soon as the body has enough Vitamin A, less beta Carotin is converted. Therefore beta Carotin is a Vitamin A resource of high security. An excessive supply does not lead to a Vitamin A Hypervitaminose. Surplus beta Carotin is predominantly stored in the fat fabrics of the body. The accumulations of fat of adults are often yellow due to the stored Carotin, while they are white with children. A redundant beta Carotin consumption can lead to yellowish skin color, which disappears however after reduction and/or attitude of the supply rapidly. Stability The content of active Carotinoiden in food can decrease something during the storage process. This is the result of enzyme reactions and the effect of light and oxygen. The hydrogenation of plant fats and the drying process of fruit and vegetable are two food-technical procedures, which reduce the biological activity of the Carotinoide substantially. With frozen food against it this activity remains stable. Fundamental reciprocal effects Tobacco smoking and consumption of alcohol let the beta Carotin mirror drop noticeably. Supply/Versorgungastatus Many scientists attribute a protecting effect to the supply of at beta Carotin rich fruits and vegetables with the emergence of certain kinds of cancer. A high supply and/or a very good supplying status of this nutrient is particularly brought to the cancer of the lungs with a reduced occurrence of certain cancer forms, in connection. Groups of risks for a low beta Carotin status
Since it was scientifically confirmed in the meantime that the BetaCarotin need lies substantially more highly than in former times was accepted, one is today convinced of the fact that many humans do not take up sufficient BetaCarotin with the food. Although this applies to the largest part of the population, there are special groups, at which one tightened beta Carotin mirrors in the blood, dropped strongly. In addition belong regular smokers and consumption of alcohol ducks as well as pregnant woman and satisfying women. The Carotinold mirrors in the blood are in principle low under the influence of diseases, with which the fat absorption is impaired, e.g. Sprue and jaundice. Other diseases such as living ore erring trousers and Rheumatismus affect the beta Carotin equilibrium likewise negatively. Recommendations for the daily supply The supply of beta Carotin from food is in the meantime a component of the RDA (Recommended Dietary Allowances = recommendations for the daily nutrient supply) for Vitamin A in the USA. In the Federal Republic of Germany from the German society for nutrition (DGE) for healthy adults a daily supply from 0,8 to 1,1mg will consider Vitamin - A recommended - without the BetaCarotin admission explicitly. For pregnant woman and satisfying women an increased demand is indicated by 300 RH and/or 1,000 RH. With children the recommendation reads depending upon age of 400 RH for infants to 900 RH for 10 - to 12jährige. Investigations in the USA for example have resulted in that about half Vitamin of A is supplied by way of the average nutrition, from BetaCarotin originate. After computations on the basis of the consumption statistics of the nourishing report 1984 the DGE in the Federal Republic of only approx. 20 per cent Vitamin of A over beta Carotin are supplied. In accordance with the nourishing recommendations of the NCI (national CAN cerium of institutes) of the United States the ideal relationship beta Carotin/Vitamin A lies in the food consumption with 90:10. Beta Carotin does not however only have Provitamin A function, but is like studies occupies - also its own micro nutrient. Nevertheless still no official data for the height of the beta Carotin daily requirement exist. Nevertheless scientific and national organizations endorse like the NCI and the American Ministry Of Agriculture the consumption of beta Carotin rich food. The suggested quantities correspond to one repeated ones of the average beta Carotin value, which is reached in the nutrition of the US citizens. The average food in America contains approximately 1.5 mg beta Carotin daily, whereas the NCI recommendations correspond converted to a quantity of approximately 6 mg per day. Security Due to the regulated transformation of beta Carotin in Vitamin A an excessive consumption does not release Vitamin A intoxication. The gift of very large quantities of Carotinoiden with certain disease arrangements (Hyperlipidämie, diabetes mellitus, Nephroti syndrome, Hypothyreose) can release a Hypercarotinämie, which expresses itself in a yellow colouring of the skin, mainly on the palms and at the soles. The yellow color disappears, as soon as the Carotinoid supply is reduced or adjusted. Investigations at humans were accomplished, in order to occupy security from beta Carotin to. With patients with luminous sensivity as with the Erythropoeti Protoporphyrie even with over years an accomplished oral admission of 50 to 200 mg beta Carotin per day no unfavorable effects were observed. Food enrichment and - technology Margarine and fruit beverages are often enriched with beta Carotin. 1941 led the FDA (Food and Drug administration) in the USA a standardisation for the enrichment of margarine with Vitamin a A. in Germany Vitamin A of the margarine for approximately 50 years are likewise added. Meanwhile the Vitamin A was partly replaced by beta Carotin, whereby the margarine receives also its attractive yellow color. One recognized that beta Carotin is suitable due to its large safety framework for the food enrichment substantially better than Vitamin A. beta Carotin may in the Federal Republic of all food without special permission is added.
Beta Carotin
Beta Carotin
Beta Carotin is one the Carotinoide existing over 400 in nature. Carotinoide are coloring materials, which arise in numerous plants. Beta Carotin is the most frequently occurring and most well-known Carotinoid.beta Carotin molecule can theoretically into two Vitamin of A-molecules be split. Therefore it is called also Provitamin A. however only one part of the beta Carotin in the human body to Vitamin A is converted. The remainder is stored. In addition the portion of the beta Carotin in the body, converted to Vitamin A, of the status already existing is regulated, so that it can come to no Vitamin A intoxication. Only about 50 Carotinoide possess Provitamin A-effect, and of it beta Carotin is the most active
The best sources of the beta Carotin are orange low-yellow and/or fruits and vegetables as well as dark-green sheet vegetables like for example:
* yellow and/or orange vegetable: Carrots, Bataten (sweet potatoes),; * yellow and/or orange fruits: Apricots, Cantaloupe melons, Papayas, Mangos, Carambolas, nectarines, peaches; * dark-green sheet vegetables: Spinach, Brokkoli, Endivien, Chicor, e, Kresse * as well as the sheets of red patches, white carrots and dandelion; * other vegetable and fruit which is applicable as source: Tomatoes, asparagus, peas, Kohl, Mais, Sauerkirschen, Pflaumen.
The content of beta Carotin in fruit and vegetables can vary: It depends on the respective sort, the season or the degree the ripe one. The bio-availability of beta Carotin from fruits and vegetables depends on the preparation before the consumption. Any referring to the actual beta Carotin content can be thus only estimations.
The following short overview points the beta Carotin content out per 100 9 edible portion:
* Vegetable: Carrots (6.6 mg), Kresse (5.6 mg), spinach (4.9 mg), Brokkoli (1.5 mg), tomatoes (0.5 mg). Fruits: Mangos (2.9 mg), melons (2.0 mg), apricots (1.6 mg), peaches (0.5 mg), oranges (0.1 mg).
Storage in the body Gallensalze are needed for the absorption of the beta Carotin in the upper small intestine. Many factors in the food, so for example fat and proteins, can affect this admission. Approximately ten to fifty per cent of the entire supplied BetaCarotin in the Gastro intestinal tract are absorbed. The portion of the absorbed beta Carotin is reduced with rising supply. Within the intestinal mucosa (Mukosa) beta Carotin is converted with the help of the enzyme Beta-Carotin-15,15' Dioxygenase into Vitamin A (Retinol). This mechanism is adjusted by the Vitamin A status of the respective person. As soon as the body has enough Vitamin A, less beta Carotin is converted. Therefore beta Carotin is a Vitamin A resource of high security. An excessive supply does not lead to a Vitamin A Hypervitaminose. Surplus beta Carotin is predominantly stored in the fat fabrics of the body. The accumulations of fat of adults are often yellow due to the stored Carotin, while they are white with children. A redundant beta Carotin consumption can lead to yellowish skin color, which disappears however after reduction and/or attitude of the supply rapidly. Stability The content of active Carotinoiden in food can decrease something during the storage process. This is the result of enzyme reactions and the effect of light and oxygen. The hydrogenation of plant fats and the drying process of fruit and vegetable are two food-technical procedures, which reduce the biological activity of the Carotinoide substantially. With frozen food against it this activity remains stable. Fundamental reciprocal effects Tobacco smoking and consumption of alcohol let the beta Carotin mirror drop noticeably. Supply/Versorgungastatus Many scientists attribute a protecting effect to the supply of at beta Carotin rich fruits and vegetables with the emergence of certain kinds of cancer. A high supply and/or a very good supplying status of this nutrient is particularly brought to the cancer of the lungs with a reduced occurrence of certain cancer forms, in connection. Groups of risks for a low beta Carotin status
Since it was scientifically confirmed in the meantime that the BetaCarotin need lies substantially more highly than in former times was accepted, one is today convinced of the fact that many humans do not take up sufficient BetaCarotin with the food. Although this applies to the largest part of the population, there are special groups, at which one tightened beta Carotin mirrors in the blood, dropped strongly. In addition belong regular smokers and consumption of alcohol ducks as well as pregnant woman and satisfying women. The Carotinold mirrors in the blood are in principle low under the influence of diseases, with which the fat absorption is impaired, e.g. Sprue and jaundice. Other diseases such as living ore erring trousers and Rheumatismus affect the beta Carotin equilibrium likewise negatively. Recommendations for the daily supply The supply of beta Carotin from food is in the meantime a component of the RDA (Recommended Dietary Allowances = recommendations for the daily nutrient supply) for Vitamin A in the USA. In the Federal Republic of Germany from the German society for nutrition (DGE) for healthy adults a daily supply from 0,8 to 1,1mg will consider Vitamin - A recommended - without the BetaCarotin admission explicitly. For pregnant woman and satisfying women an increased demand is indicated by 300 RH and/or 1,000 RH. With children the recommendation reads depending upon age of 400 RH for infants to 900 RH for 10 - to 12jährige. Investigations in the USA for example have resulted in that about half Vitamin of A is supplied by way of the average nutrition, from BetaCarotin originate. After computations on the basis of the consumption statistics of the nourishing report 1984 the DGE in the Federal Republic of only approx. 20 per cent Vitamin of A over beta Carotin are supplied. In accordance with the nourishing recommendations of the NCI (national CAN cerium of institutes) of the United States the ideal relationship beta Carotin/Vitamin A lies in the food consumption with 90:10. Beta Carotin does not however only have Provitamin A function, but is like studies occupies - also its own micro nutrient. Nevertheless still no official data for the height of the beta Carotin daily requirement exist. Nevertheless scientific and national organizations endorse like the NCI and the American Ministry Of Agriculture the consumption of beta Carotin rich food. The suggested quantities correspond to one repeated ones of the average beta Carotin value, which is reached in the nutrition of the US citizens. The average food in America contains approximately 1.5 mg beta Carotin daily, whereas the NCI recommendations correspond converted to a quantity of approximately 6 mg per day. Security Due to the regulated transformation of beta Carotin in Vitamin A an excessive consumption does not release Vitamin A intoxication. The gift of very large quantities of Carotinoiden with certain disease arrangements (Hyperlipidämie, diabetes mellitus, Nephroti syndrome, Hypothyreose) can release a Hypercarotinämie, which expresses itself in a yellow colouring of the skin, mainly on the palms and at the soles. The yellow color disappears, as soon as the Carotinoid supply is reduced or adjusted. Investigations at humans were accomplished, in order to occupy security from beta Carotin to. With patients with luminous sensivity as with the Erythropoeti Protoporphyrie even with over years an accomplished oral admission of 50 to 200 mg beta Carotin per day no unfavorable effects were observed. Food enrichment and - technology Margarine and fruit beverages are often enriched with beta Carotin. 1941 led the FDA (Food and Drug administration) in the USA a standardisation for the enrichment of margarine with Vitamin a A. in Germany Vitamin A of the margarine for approximately 50 years are likewise added. Meanwhile the Vitamin A was partly replaced by beta Carotin, whereby the margarine receives also its attractive yellow color. One recognized that beta Carotin is suitable due to its large safety framework for the food enrichment substantially better than Vitamin A. beta Carotin may in the Federal Republic of all food without special permission is added.
Mammograms
Mammograms for Breast Augmentation Patients
Despite the possibility of your implant rupturing from the pressure, doctors still recommend that women who have undergone a breast augmentation have a mammogram.
Women who are considering breast augmentation should be aware that implants can interfere with finding breast cancer during a mammogram. This is because the implant shows up as a solid white shape, obscuring tumors above or below. In addition to making tumors more difficult to detect, implants cause "false positive" results as well when extensive scarring and calcium deposits mimic the appearance of cancer, making the deposits difficult to distinguish from tumors on a mammogram. Biopsy may be necessary to determine whether these are cancerous.
Specific mammogram techniques have been developed to ensure that as much breast tissue as possible is examined in women who have undergone breast augmentation surgery. This requires taking extra images, called displacement views, which expose the woman to more radiation.
In 2004, Miglioretti and her colleagues published a study in the Journal of the American Medical Association indicating that 55% of breast tumors were not initially detected on mammograms for women who have undergone breast augmentation surgery, although the extra images were used.
This compares to about 30% of tumors that were not initially detected for women who did not have breast augmentation surgery. These tumors were subsequently detected in later mammograms.
Another problem is that calcium deposits can be seen on mammograms and can be mistaken for possible cancer, resulting in additional surgery to biopsy or remove the implant to distinguish these deposits from cancer. Calcium deposits may be felt as modules or bumps under the skin around the implant.
The displacement views do not protect against rupture, which becomes a greater problem as implants age. Dr. Lori Brown, an FDA scientist, published an article in 2004 in the Journal of Women's Health, indicating that the FDA has received dozens of reports of implants rupturing or leaking during mammography.
Ultrasound and MRIs can be used to detect breast cancer instead of mammograms, but this adds to the cost of screening and may not be covered by health insurance.
The bottom line is to ask yourself if the benefits of breast augmentation outweigh the risks of more serious diseases and complications. No one can answer this question for you, except you and of course, your doctor.
Disclaimer - The information presented here should not be interpreted as medical advice. If you or someone you know is considering breast augmentation surgery, please seek professional medical advice for the risks and benefits of this type of surgery.
jont-family:inherit
The Benefits Of Cancer Information Are Enormous
Finding out you or someone that you love has been diagnosed with cancer is to say the very least a devastating blow. It will become not only a hard road emotionally, physically but also financially. This is why you need to find as much cancer information as you can. This may be in the form of advice and support from doctors, counselors, specific cancer organizations, family and friends including other cancer sufferers as well. Talking to people who have been in the same situation as yourself can be an enormous support and also a wonderful source of cancer information can be shared.
Apart from speaking to people in person there are other ways to gain more info about this situation. There are many books that you can read both for the patient and or families and friends. I suppose the easiest way to find out more is on the internet. In the U.S alone there are many websites that are full of relevant cancer information. To start with you have the American Cancer Society. Obviously there are many different cancers so there will be many different informative sources on all of them and you will no doubt be looking for a particular type for your own circumstances. But in the end every one who is suffering from any one of these cancers will still need the same help and support regarding coping stategies and so on.
This is where speaking to people in the same situation will be helpful. There are forums and chat rooms that will give you the opportunity to speak to some of these people. It can be very positive to speak to someone who has gone through what you are and now have fully recovered. Just being able to talk about medications and treatments with someone who really understands can be an amazing therapeutic comfort. You must remember that having this illness does not only affect your physical side but also your mental side and this needs to be looked after as well.
Another good reason to find as much cancer information as possible is to find out other forms of treatments that may be able to help you either on their own or as a combination along side of the usual forms. Usually at this time in someone's life things become very confusing with all the medical jargon as well as all the emotional turmoil and the often draining effects of medication and treatments to be able to think properly. This is when you should be gathering up as much info as you can and just taking your time reading through it so you can get a better picture of what is going on and how to make the best of it.
If you are someone who has a loved one that has been diagnosed with this type of illness then you should be finding out as much as you can to be able to do the right things emotionally to help support this person. You also can read up on their particular condition so you can help answer any questions when they arise. Support from family and friends is a very important part of recovery for someone suffering from cancer.
Economy Drives Regulation
Economy Drives Regulation, Innovation and Investment in Renewable Energy, Water Industry and Healthcare
China's Attempt to Balance the Environment and a Rapidly Growing Economy Drives Regulation, Innovation and Investment in Renewable Energy, Water Industry and Healthcare
July 2006, China-AsiaStocks.com
With China's growth at double digit rates into the first half of the year, the environmental concerns and pollution problems are escalating as quickly as the economy, with an estimated 76 reported pollution incidents in the past 8 months. The impact of rapid industrialization has created massive environmental problems in the water air and soil, creating disease and multiple health problems for people living in the affected areas. China is working to create and restore balance and harmony in their environment through pending law, regulation, and investment in new technology. Public companies Vitasti, Inc. (OTCBB: VITS), CECO Environmental Corp (NASDAQ:CECE), Hendrx Corp (OTCBB: HDRX) and Bridgetech Holdings International, Inc. (OTC.PK: BGTH); in renewable energy, air and water treatment and healthcare discuss how the serious problem of pollution has created business opportunities for their respective sectors. The All China Environment Federation (ACEF) was launched in Beijing in 2005, receiving backing from high-level government officials as part of a movement to show that China is becoming very serious about the environmental damage and repercussions of the rapid economic growth. It's receiving global support as evidenced by The World Bank loan of $668 million to the People's Republic of China to support projects to address environmental problems and developing transport infrastructure. China may be positioning to change its global image from environmental disasters to an environmental leader, as it was recently recognized as the world leading investor in renewable energy. In order to pave the road to change, China is changing policy and legal framework to incite investment and innovation in technology.
Renewable Energy; Regulation and Investment Driving the Sector
China has set a target of twenty percent of its power to come from renewable sources by 2020. That kind of aggressive strategy sets the stage for renewable energy companies to participate in the anticipated growth in wind, solar and energy efficient technologies.
Wind energy technology is on the rise and China's largest wind electric power generator manufacturer, Goldwind Science and Technology Co. Ltd., is currently pursuing a U.S. IPO, following on the tracks of several renewable IPO's. The company plans to go public to finance its anticipated substantial growth as China demands green energy solutions as evidenced by its 6 billion U.S. investment in renewable energy in 2005.
Vitasti, Inc.'s (OTCBB: VITS)Director , Mr. deDelley, a wind farm developer targeting China commented " The stage is set to provide environmentally friendly power to fulfill the needs of a electrically thirsty nation and stave the pollution associated with the massive developments China is experiencing. Our Company, Vitasti/Welwind ,has been moving projects ahead to develop 1000 megawatts of wind powered generation along the coast of the south China sea. All levels of government and industry are accepting the wind technology with great enthusiasm and willingness, making our work easier. "
Mr. deDelley went on to state" With the political and industry relationships Welwind has forged within China we are looking at continued support to advance the projects and to ensure successful wind farms, creation of rural employment, mitigation of pollution, and provide a greatly needed commodity : wind powered electricity."
Chinese officials have announced plans for the country's first energy "basic law" passed by the legislature in two years with a goal of reducing national energy consumption by 20 percent from 2006 to 2010 and creating an energy-efficient and environmentally friendly society. The law would encourage domestic energy exploration and international energy cooperation, optimize energy reserves and emergency response systems, scaling and development of renewable and new energies and enhance energy efficiency.
The China Environment Fund, http://www.cefund.com/, a leading VC fund in sustainable investment in China is investing in energy efficiency, solar and bio-diesel.
China's Water and Air Pollution and Solutions
Recent news in China including the toxic spill into the Desha River have made China's officials and global leaders take action into addressing the urgent environmental and water issues. It's currently estimated that 300 million people, representing one-quarter the population, drink unsafe, water. Additionally, only one third of the 3.7 billion tons of wastewater discharged is treated.
China is taking steps to create law and regulation to address critical water issues including recently ratifying an international treaty to preserve the marine environment and prevent pollution on the high seas.
Global funding to address water problems has been approved by the World Bank. The World Bank's Board of Executive Directors recently announced loans of $668 million to the People's Republic of China in support of four projects to address environmental problems including water treatment and waste treatment.
Hendrx Corp (OTCBB: HDRX), a manufacturer of water purification technology with operations in China describes, "Senior management of our company is evaluating our current capabilities and seeking complimentary engineering, service and reporting capabilities to remedy and prevent future occurrences that will harm the environment. Our objective is to use computer age technology and instant monitoring of contributing factors that may predict future weaknesses and thereby enabling operating management to implement the appropriate safety measures."
According to a Hendrx spokesperson, "In as much as the regulatory agencies have not yet begun to create the inquiries, we expect that we will be able and ready to respond to such inquires as they are forthcoming. Realistically, we don't expect any one entity to be selected to find a solution to the different challenges; rather we expect to be part of a team that will over time solve the total problem."
"Hendrx is in a unique position to be optimistic about our chances to be part of the "problem- solving team" because we already have more than 200 employees in the Fujian province of China. Our technical know how and our reputation is well respected on both sides of the Pacific."
In terms of air pollution, according to a 2006 report by the World Watch Institute, China is home to 16 of the 20 cities with the most polluted air in the world.
According to Phillip DeZwirek, Chairman & CEO of CECO Environmental (NASDAQ: CECE), a world leader in clean air solutions, "CECO Environmental is the largest independent air pollution control company in N.A. and having been in business since 1907 has established a customer base of over 2000 companies including most of the Fortune 500. As many of our customers have established manufacturing operations in China they imported our technology and expertise into their Chinese facilities. Chinese based companies recognized the multiple benefits that CECO's environmental installations brought to these new U.S. owned factories and are now hiring CECO to solve their environmental challenges. The market for air pollution control systems in China is vast and with the imminence of the 2008 Olympics plus the pollution potential from the rapidly expanding Chinese economy the demand for all methods of pollution control is and will be enormous."
Healthcare - The Impact of Air and Water Pollution on Human Health
If you survey any average person on the street that saw Julia Roberts play Erin Brockovich, they can make the instant connection that industrial water pollution can cause multiple forms of cancer. It's no different in China, but the problem is multiplied beyond anything North America has experienced. Last November, for example, a factory explosion resulted in benzene, a cancer-causing chemical linked to forms of leukemia, to run into the Songhua River, effecting millions of people in northeast China. More recently, the Dasha River was contaminated when a truck overturned dumping in 60 tons of potentially carcinogenic coal tar.
According to a 2006 report by the World Watch Institute, (http://www.worldwatch.org/node/3881), "a Chinese research institute found that 400,000 premature deaths are caused every year in China by diseases linked to air pollution."
Bridgetech Holdings International, Inc (BGTH:OTCBB), a medical and healthcare company sees China's environmental situation creating a major impact on the country's healthcare, as well as influencing the product mix their company is bringing to the Chinese market.
According to Michael Chermak, Bridgetech's Chairman & CEO, "Over the near term Bridgetech will specialize in introducing oncology products. This is a direct response to the fact that China is experiencing dramatic changes in the types of cancer and in the overall cancer incident rate. This rate is growing at the unprecedented pace of 3.3 percent per year. The environmental problems associated with rapid industrialization, like coal fired power plants, certainly contribute to this high growth rate. The growth of cancer has affected women most severely. In the last fifteen years the incident rate for women has grown from 89 per 100,000 women to 138 per 100,000. For men it is now at 200, up from 148. "
At present, Bridgetech is very encouraged by developments in China's regulatory system. The government's moves to protect intellectual property and to stem the favoritism and traditional practices in China's product distribution system hold much promise for Bridgetech's future because they will allow the company to introduce the very best in foreign technology with less fear that technology might be unfairly appropriated and because the company will be able to apply professional business practices to more effectively distribute its products throughout China. Faced by the demands of a evolving healthcare system and challenged by sudden changes in the nation's epidemiological profile, China's State Food and Drug Administration recognizes the need to supplement its domestic pharmaceutical industry with foreign medications and is proving a fast track to approval for medications that have undergone the approval process of other regulatory agencies such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. This is another positive development for Bridgetech because these are exactly the types of medications the company is seeking approval for.
The Ultimate Goal
We often hear and use the expression "follow the money" to watch and understand industry trends. In China, it's a case of "smell the water and the air" to understand what is needed and where the money should be going in China.
Ironically, information on disasters and health crises may not always be available to the public if the Chinese government has its way, based on newly drafted legislation that will allow them to fine newspapers up to $12,000 if they report on these types of emergencies without first getting permission.
But we won't be in the dark completely if renewable energy companies like Vitasti have their way. As Vitasti, Inc states, "The country knows that it cannot proceed with the economic development and ignore the environment in future growth"
Consumers in China are readily embracing the environmental movement as evidenced by recent info released by Greenpeace International stating that their surveys showed Chinese consumers were prepared to pay more for environmentally friendly PCs than any other country. It's a step towards the ultimate goal of creating balance and harmony with technology and the environment.
The environmental race is one that China cannot afford to loose and based on recent news, they are making serious efforts to repair the damage of the past and find solutions for the future. The question remains - are they moving fast enough? The outcome of the balancing act of managing rapid economic growth and the environmental concerns will impact the world for generations to come as the pollution moves outside of China's borders.
China-AsiaStocks.com (CAS), a portal within the InvestorIdeas.com content umbrella, does not make recommendations, but offers investors research, news and links to public companies within the China-Asia sector. www.RenewableEnergyStocks.com™ (RES), www.EnvironmentStocks.com (ES) and www.water-stocks.com (WS) offer investors research, news, interviews, articles, blogs and links to public companies within the renewable energy, clean tech and water sectors. We provide a variety of renewable and green content through: Clean Energy News Blog, Renewable Energy Blog and articles by solar expert, J. Peter Lynch, all available on RenewableEnergyStocks.com™ Disclaimer: Portals are compensated by Featured advertising companies. InvestorIdeas.com Disclaimer: www.InvestorIdeas.com/About/Disclaimer.asp ©Copyright InvestorIdeas 2006
Saturday, March 22, 2008
In pursuit of the perfect pantry
In pursuit of the perfect pantry - food storage tips in kitchens - Brief Article
Tips for creating a food-storage area that fits your requirements
The pantry is staging a comeback. As more people buy in bulk from discount stores and use a wider array of cooking appliances, they need more kitchen storage space. "Pantries are popular because storage is an absolutely critical issue today," says designer Mary Jo Peterson, consultant to the National Kitchen & Bath Association. "Most people are constantly struggling to find more space in their homes."
Design tips
We asked experts around the West for their tips on organizing pantries.
* Think small. Pantries don't have to be large or expensive. Is there a small, underutilized space in your kitchen that could be converted to this purpose? "Narrow pantries are a good way to use space in your kitchen that otherwise would go to waste," says kitchen designer Michelle Minch of Moving Mountains Design in Denver. Many home stores sell small, inexpensive modular pantry units that you can put together yourself. For instance, IKEA's Elemental Pantry-1 foot wide by 7 feet tall by 2 feet deep-sells for about $120.
* Think versatile. As you and your family grow older, your storage needs are likely to change. That means using adjustable shelves, wire racks that can be added or removed from pantry doors, and multiuse baskets that can be stacked and moved. For additional space efficiency, consider such adaptable items as 12- to 16-inch-wide wire baskets, which can easily hook to and hang from shelves.
Taj Mahal: a weekend of wonder
Taj Mahal: a weekend of wonder
India for a short break? Simon Horsford heads for the Taj Mahal.
A short break to India seemed a great idea after a good dinner; less so in the cold light of day. But I calculated that by leaving on a Thursday morning, we could get three full days in Delhi and Agra and be back for the start of the following week, when the four-hour time difference would work in our favour.
Which is how we found ourselves driving into the Indian capital just after 10pm local time. The heat was intense even at this late hour, but it was still a welcome change from endless English rain. It's true that India consumes you the moment you arrive. The sights, the smells, the noise and the feeling that nothing ever seems to stand still.
If we needed any more convincing, the road trip to Agra proved the point. After a hearty breakfast of mango, fresh yogurt and scrambled eggs, we set off early for the four-hour journey; the train might have been quicker and more traditional but could hardly have been more entertaining or manic.
After only a few miles nothing surprised us any more, as a motley array of cars, lorries, bicycles, auto-rickshaws, people and animals jostled for position on the road. It was like a sub-continental version of Wacky Races. Families of four, five and more clung to rickety rickshaws, brightly coloured lorries took no prisoners while water buffalo, oxen and even an elephant vied for the limited space on the uneven two- and occasionally three-lane roads. The honking was incessant but oddly, the craziness was remarkably good-natured.
After three hours or so, and keen to make the most of our limited time, we made straight for the "ghost city" of Fatehpur Sikri, the stunning, short-lived imperial capital of the Mughal Emperor Akbar. This walled city, built in 1571 in honour of Sufi saint Salim Christi, stands as a fabulous example of Mughal architecture and the emperor's admirably inclusive approach to religion. Hindus, Muslims and Jesuits all lived at court and Christi even developed a cult called Deen Ilahi, a blend of the main religions.
His vision also extended to Fatehpur Sikri's architecture, which blends Muslim, Hindu and Jain designs among the arches and domes of this red sandstone city. His creation, which lasted as a seat of power for only 14 years, can be seen best by wandering into the magnificent open mosque of Jami Masjid (make a wish by tying a cotton thread around Christi's exquisite tomb) and at the five-storey open pavilion of Panch Mahal.
If Fatephur Sikri had taken the breath away, it was still put in the shade by the next sight - our reason for being there. Off a dusty road in the unremarkable town of Agra we wandered into our hotel, the palatial Oberoi Amarvillas, and caught a first glimpse of the Taj Mahal, just 650 yards away.
There is always a nagging doubt that reputation might not match the reality. No such worries here. The Taj Mahal is strikingly, heart-tuggingly beautiful. Earlier this year, it was voted one of the seven wonders of the modern world after an eight-year, worldwide online poll which apparently attracted 100 million votes.
Rudyard Kipling likened it to an ivory gate through which all dreams pass, and it's this fantasy-like aura that we noticed first the following day at dawn while we wandered around emperor Shah Jahan's memorial to his favourite wife, Mumtaz Mahal.
Our guide, clearly smitten, explained how everything about the Taj has a meaning, from the Islamic inscriptions and the calligraphic panels to the height of the dome and the location of the tomb chamber. Soon we were similarly affected. From our hotel room we saw first-hand how the monument changes colour as the light plays on the marble: from a misty reddish glow in the early morning to a dazzling white in the heat of the sun.
Dodging street hawkers proffering everything from postcards to copies of the Kama Sutra, we ducked into Agra's other gem, its magnificent fort. Again built of red sandstone by the open-minded Akbar, it also betrays other influences, such as the rigorously Islamic taste of Shah Johan (the Pearl Mosque being the best example) - there's even a touch of Britishness, in the shape of the barracks, added in the 19th century. It was on a marble balcony in the fort's Meena bazaar that our guide claimed Mumtaz Mahal had first met Shah Jahan.
Back in Delhi, we realised, inevitably, the shortcomings of such a short break, and wished we had more time to explore. The contrast between New and Old Delhi still astonishes: one British-built, ordered and modern, the other vibrant, daunting and with poverty disturbingly apparent.
With a copy of that week's Time Out: Delhi we contemplated everything from a Bollywood movie and a classical concert to a visit to the mango festival, ruling out the Sulabh International Museum of Toilets. In the end we sat in the beautifully landscaped Mughal gardens looking towards the Lutyens-designed Rashtrapati Bhavan, the former viceroy's house, and spent the last hours of a bright, Sunday afternoon snacking on super-sugary Indian cakes.
Back at my desk soon after lunch the following day, I reflected that, perhaps, there was too much to see in a long weekend. But it had been worth it to witness the hypnotic beauty of the Taj Mahal and to experience, however briefly, the intensity of India. And I didn't have jet lag.
Essentials
Elegant Resorts Worldwide Reservations offers two nights at The Oberoi New Delhi and two nights at The Oberoi Amarvilas, Agra, in a Premier Room, from £1,415 per person (based on two sharing) on a room-only basis.
The price includes return economy class flight from Heathrow with British Airways, private car transfers and a return train from Delhi to Agra with Designer Holidays, Elegant Resorts' India-based ground handler.
Travel Tips
Travel Tips
There are common sense travel tips, like "Check at least three web sites to get the best deal on plane tickets." Then there are the tips that are more along the line of "secrets." These are the little-known tricks learned by experience. Here are some of the best of those.
Cheap Travel Tips
Find out where local visitors from within the country stay. The cheapest "tourist hotel" I could find when in a resort town in Mexico was $135. I asked a local businessman where to find a cheap room, and got one for $10. There wasn't a swimming pool, but the room was spotless. I was there to travel, not to lounge, so this suited me fine.
Negotiating room charges is common in many countries. In Banos, Ecuador, we negotiated our room rate down from $12 to $6 per night, by paying for several nights in advance. The trick here is to be sure that there are other options, then make your final offer and walk away. Most owners will call you back and lower the price.
Consider hostels, if you don't mind sharing a room. They're much more common overseas. This saves you a lot if you are single, because you pay for the bed. I once spent four days in a hostel for $4 per day, breakfast included. I shared a room with several others, and a TV room with travelers from 16 countries.
Hotels in the U.S. are less likely to negotiate, but we have done it. Most small chain motels are not company-owned, but franchises, so it is usually the owner behind the counter. Paying for several nights in advance, or just starting to walk away, has resulted in discounts for us many times.
Travel is often only as cheap as your plane tickets. For international travel, search the fares to several countries that you would like to visit. Go to the cheapest one now - the others will be cheap another time, and a savings of $500 can buy a few extra days, or an extra mini-vacation some other time.
Anywhere you go, there are things you can do to keep it cheaper. Eat where locals eat, for example, instead of at tourist restaurants. See the free and cheap attractions first. You might have so much fun that you'll never get around to doing the expensive things. Higher prices mean better quality with travel bags, but not necessarily with travel experiences.
Other Travel Tips
E-mail important documents to yourself. These should include a copy of your passport, other IDs, phone numbers of the U.S. Consulate offices where you'll be, and your itinerary or e-tickets for any flights. In this way, even if you are robbed and lose everything, you'll have access to all the important documents from any internet cafe in the world.
On a streetcar, I once had a pocket unzipped and the wallet removed without feeling a thing. Many pickpockets are experts. Fortunately, it was a "decoy" wallet, with nothing but a few pieces of paper, and a fake credit card. Other ways to protect money, cards and documents include putting a bill or two under the inner sole of running shoes, safety-pinning a hidden pocket inside your pants, and hiding cash in several different places.
I see young travelers in other countries walking anywhere they feel like it at night, and then being shocked that they are robbed. Aren't there places in New York or Chicago where you wouldn't walk at night? Ask the locals where it is safe and where it isn't, and trust your intuition when it warns you. Leave expensive clothing and jewelry at the hotel when you are just out for a walk. Safety tricks are the most important travel tips.
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Family yoga in the hands of a goddess
"Hey dad! You look like a purple balloon" was not the sort of comment I had been hoping for when I signed up my wife and eight-year-old son for a week's family yoga holiday in Cyprus. I was in the small exercise studio of the Anassa Hotel trying to ease my legs over my head after a strenuous shoulder stand (from Salamba Sarvangasana to Halasana in yoga speak). It was our final class and I wanted to show off to my son, Ben, and our instructor, lovely Liitsa - the Nordic goddess.
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| All karma: Ben Morris practises his yogic skills at the Anassa Hotel |
Deflated from hero dad to Homer Simpson, I collapsed in a heap while Ben moved on effortlessly to the next position. Watching from the sidelines, my wife giggled into her ginger tea as Liitsa, sounding like a sympathetic sat-nav, carried on seamlessly with the class.
Yogic enlightenment, or even just a few supple tummy muscles, seemed a long way off. But as I lay sprawled on my mat I did at least feel a little taller, less hunched up, and pleased that the Morris family had been introduced to the world of yoga via the Trojan horse of a luxurious five-star hotel.
The fixers
The week's holiday was organised by a London-based outfit called Yogoloji, which specialises in intimate yoga breaks in beautiful surroundings. As well as morning and evening classes for adults, its Anassa package included a children's yoga programme, bespoke yoga therapy sessions and daily holistic treatments.
The price tag of £940 per adult doesn't include flights, accommodation or meals. Full board is compulsory at an extra cost of £475 per person for the week. For a wine-loving omnivore like myself the option of a specially designed detox menu didn't make the deal any more attractive. Just when did not ordering the Châteauneuf-du-Pape and avoiding the coffee, cheese and beef steaks become so expensive?
The hotel
The real star of the show was the hotel. When we arrived at the Anassa, after a long drive from Larnaca to the western corner of the island, our driver introduced the hotel as a "she". He explained that in ancient Greek "Anassa" means "queen" or "grande dame". Inside, the hotel began to live up to its regal title. The first impression is of a five-star monastery where no expense has been spared on materials (marble, sandstone and stained glass), craftsmanship or staff.
The lobby and connecting corridors have vaulted ceilings, full-sized icons on the walls and minimalist fountains. The good taste continues in the central bars and restaurants beyond to the villas laid out as an idealised Cypriot village. There are winding pathways and gentle slopes edged with soft Mediterranean landscaping that at a glance look completely natural - almost wild. The design is restricted to a comfortable human scale and everything is directed towards the sweeping beauty of the Chrysochou Bay and the hills of the Akamas Peninsula beyond.
There is even a real Cypriot church within the hotel grounds, so I was not surprised to see a group of orthodox monks enjoying a deluxe buffet breakfast in the main restaurant one morning. It was this mixture of style and spirituality that formed the perfect backdrop for our introduction to yoga-lite. Believe me, if there are plans to form a new religion based around hotels like the Anassa, I would be the first convert.
The yoga
There were two group yoga classes every day: a dynamic morning class at 7.30, with lots of sun salutations and stretching, and a slower, more meditative evening class at 5.30. I found the early starts a torture, but apparently they're the norm in most yoga retreats and it's probably wise to get the stretching over with before tucking into your full English breakfast.
As for the classes themselves, apart from the few moments when I felt like a Guantanamo Bay prisoner crouched on the floor with my hands behind my head and the odd bit of gratuitous sermonising, I really enjoyed the yoga.
Liisa Halme, our instructor from Finland, gently talked us through the exercises, offering the occasional guiding hand towards a decent "upward-facing dog" or a well balanced "bridge". I particularly liked it when she wore her Dolce & Gabbana movie-star sunglasses and harem trousers for our outdoor morning session. The outfit seemed to sum up the style of our glamorous yoga retreat.
The children's yoga
Despite their irksome titles, the Teeny Yogini (three- to six-year-olds) and the Teen Yogini (seven- to 14-year-olds) classes on offer seemed like a great way of getting young people painlessly involved in exercising. The sessions were structured around a narrative as the children imitated animals or pretended to be snow-boarders or aeroplanes while mirroring the classic yoga poses. The yogic twist helps develop concentration, balance and posture - especially useful after all those hours crouched over a Nintendo DS.
was also glad to see there was an emphasis upon relaxation. Ben and I agreed that our favourite part was at the end class - when tucked up beneath a marshmallow of a duvet you can gently meditate, clear your mind or even doze off.
All good stuff, except that there were no other takers for the teen Yogini, so Ben had the choice of doing it on his own or teaming up with old balloon-face dad. The lack of other children on the retreat also caused problems with child-care during the adult sessions. An early start or hanging around late in the children's club is fine if you are with your mates. If it is just you and a disgruntled cleaner watching a video then it's a little sad. For this reason, it is well worth checking that there are definitely other children of your child's age on the course before you book.
The therapies
The mixed bag of Ayurvedic consultation, yoga therapy, Chinese medicine, acupuncture, Abyhanga and Marma massage on offer from the ''Yogolojees'' (please!) did remind me of a restaurant I know in Southall. On the ground floor you can order biryani, while in the basement you can get a Chinese takeaway and upstairs there's pizza and pasta. All served on the same light blue plates by the same smiling Pakistani staff.
To be fair, my wife tells me that this mix-and-match approach to treatments is not unusual in a spa and she found the acupuncturist, Bobby Joy, impressive, experienced and very helpful.
The hotel's Thalasso spa also offers an extensive range of treatments so popular it's not unusual for them all to be booked before you have even unpacked your suitcase. In light of this, Yogoloji's day packages (£136 per person) include a treatment and two yoga sessions, and are a great way to ensure you do get a half-decent massage.
Bespoke bonuses
The Anassa has its own resident yoga teacher and therapist. Raven-haired Nana Georgiou looks every inch the exotic eastern mystic that one would hope to find teaching yoga in a retreat. She runs daily group classes, covering everything from Chakra meditation to dynamic detox and her own Aqua yoga (all £14 per person).
She also offers specially designed personal sessions and family yoga (£47), and even gives group yoga sessions free of charge in the children's club. The flexibility, choice and value for money make Nana's sessions the best bespoke yoga on offer at the hotel.
Escapes from the sanctuary
If you want to escape the Anassa, don't disturb your new-found karma by visiting the sprawling mess of Paphos. Instead, head north-west to the beautiful Akamas peninsula. Unlike many parts of Cyprus it's an unspoilt natural haven. Sadly, property developments are popping up at the fringes of the peninsula like Vandals at the gates of Rome, so visit now while it's still pristine. The hotel offers guided hikes, Jeep safaris or chartered yachts to explore the natural beauty of the area.
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