GeckosRock

Wenzhou, a city in the Zhejiang Province in China, is well known for its prominent economic presence in the country. Wenzhou boasts of a 4000 year old history, and during the ancient times the city was a popular hub for pottery crafts.

Wenzhounese, the inhabitants of Wenzhou, are said to be the founders of many popular china towns spread across the globe. The city is surrounded by green rolling hills while a scenic harbour skirt the East China Sea, towards its east. Due to its geographical seclusion, the Wenzhounese claim to have a unique vernacular and culture preserved for centuries.

One of the best sightseeing attractions in Wenzhou is its Yandang Mountain nestled in the Leqing County of Wenzhou. This picturesque mountain is composed of several steep rocky peaks, striking waterfalls and even caves. The area is designated as a UNESCO Global Geopark and hosts many captivating attractions including the Spiritual Rocks, Big Dragon Waterfall and Spiritual Peaks.

Lingyan Rocks or the Spiritual Rocks snuggle a three levelled rock formation housing temples, caves and sculptures. When you hike the Yandang Mountain and reach the first level of Lingyan Rocks you will discover a cascade along with the Lingyan Temple. The second level has two caves while the third level nestles two valleys. Big Dragon Waterfall also called the Dalong Qiu, plunge from a height of 190 metres like an alluring silky veil.

The Spiritual Peaks of Yandang Mountain inspire and pique your imagination painting vivid similes, at different times of the day. At its southeast is a rock formation which resembles a monk, and so it is coined as the Old Monk Rock.

Wenzhou is not only about scenic nature escapes, it also has a great theme park at the Jiangxin Island sited right in the middle of Oujiang River. An old pagoda towers above the lush greenery of the islet, majestically. The islet is a great spot for picnics and day outs, as it nestles some charming gardens and serene lakes besides the animated theme park and a water park. Have a thrilling rollercoaster ride or fly the Ferris wheel and capture the panorama of the scenic neighbourhood.

Another nature escape in Wenzhou is the Wuyanling National Nature Reserve set in the Taishun County. The reserve spans for 200 square kilometres where its rocky terrain speckles a fine jet black to the verdant forest. This primary forest has about 17 peaks with the tallest, Baiyun Peak, reaching 1611 metres in height. With a beautiful stream running across the reserve, the site is ideal for mountaineers and hikers. Even the nature enthusiasts would not miss a chance to visit Wuyanling National Nature Reserve as it is rich in a great variety of fauna and flora.

Explore Wenzhou in Zhejiang Province and discover nature at its best while spending your vacation at a cosy hotel in Wenzhou. For a pampered holiday spiced with rich comforts try a luxury Wenzhou hotel such as Shangri-La Hotel, Wenzhou. Business and leisure travellers can take advantage of its strategic location nestled in the heart of the central business district. From here you can easily access the most popular shopping and dining hotspots besides top tourist attractions in Wenzhou.

For many people, camping outdoors is an experience lacking much to be desired. We are used to having luxuries such as indoor plumbing, electricity and a comfortable bed. Also, many people just try to “wing it” when it comes to going on a camping trip. They have no agenda, no plans for what to do, and no knowledge of the outdoors. When it comes to the children, they are just as lost as the adults, having never been taught how to survive in the great outdoors.

Yet, for those looking for an outdoor experience with planned activities and people who have knowledge of the outdoors, look no farther than one of many types of the outdoor summer camp in operation across the country. These camps have a great deal to offer those who choose to come and visit.

What Does the Outdoor Summer Camp Have to Offer?

At first an outdoor summer camps may look and conduct themselves differently from camp to camp. Every camp is directed differently and may have a different focus for its campers. Yet, across the board, outdoor camps generally offer their visitors a variety of experiences including boating, hiking, biking, fishing, and camping. Often, when children participate in an outdoor summer camp they remember the experience for a lifetime.

They may learn how to row a boat the proper way, tips on hiking and what to bring along, how to start a fire, emergency tips, and other various skills. They usually have scheduled activities, depending on the size of the facility. Some have cabins and lodges to offer their guests, and others provide tents. There is an outdoor summer camp suitable to the needs of most people.

The length of stay may vary from a couple of days to a few weeks, depending on the camp. Most offer overnight accommodation, yet some camps are called “day camps” meaning the participants go home in the evening to sleep. These camps are usually for young children who are not yet staying away from home alone. Chaperones at a camp may be staff or possibly volunteers. Both young and old are hired at camps to do a variety of jobs, such as camp counselor, activities coordinator, and director.

Add the Outdoor Summer Camp to Your Destination List

Attending an outdoor summer camp can bring the rest and relaxation that a busy soul needs. Just “getting away from it all” for a week or two may give a person the rejuvenation they need to carry on with their busy schedules. Children can experience new and exciting friendships with others, as well as glean new life skills along the way. All around, the outdoor summer camp is an experience to be had by all.

Singapore is known for its skyline. Modern skyscrapers line the skyline of the island. But that is not all; you will be surprised at the green area that Singapore has managed to keep despite the modern look of the city.

Central nature reserve is one of the examples of the commitment of the island to preserve greenery at all costs. Part of the tropical rainforest extending from Thailand through Malaysia and Indonesia Singapore has done its bit to preserve the natural ecosystem of the planet. Singapore is one of the two cities on the earth that boast of primary rain forest. This rain forest is undisturbed by man and has served as water catchment area for four reservoirs for over 150 years. Covering an area of 2000 square hectares it is one of the most spectacular green areas in the island.

This unique piece of forest is managed by National parks board. The board is run with the help of urban planner and trained biologists. This jungle undisturbed by man is natural habitat to diverse fauna and flora. Many native birds find refuge in this forest. Jungle is home to a variety of fruit and herbs and shrubs. Fruits include banana, fig and tapioca. Herbs include ginger, vanilla and cinnamon plants.

Another welcome surprise you will get in the jungle is the variety of birds you get to watch. Exotic birds include racket tailed drongo, whistling bulbul, the black naped oriole, kingfisher along with woodpecker. One may also come across kingfisher and bitterns. Along with these birds you will see long tailed monkey now and then in the jungle. Feeding these monkeys is crime and those found guilty are served heavy fine.

Another natural wildlife reserve in the island that deserves attention is Singapore Zoo. It is reputed to be one of the better zoos in the world and you will encounter animals in their natural habitat. You will be surprised to see the animals as they are quite healthy and natural.

Another way to make the visit to Singapore memorable is by going for a night Safari. In the night Safari one can walk down the safari park or enjoy the comforts of a tram. The safari has been divided into eight different zonal segments. In the course of safari you will come across 130 varieties of animals. If you want to have a closer look at the animals go for the tram ride.

Another natural wonder in the island is Santosa Island. It is store house of exotic fauna and flora of the island and must see for all the nature lovers. Santosa Island has some of the best resorts in the island and stay in any of the cheap Singapore hotel there will enhance your encounter with the nature.

Climbing is of different types and varieties. Rock climbing history is an offshoot of Mountaineering, since most of the mountaineers always have this particular kind of drive to try more challenging and thrilling climbs and terrains. It is obvious that Rock Climbing involves climbing on steep rocks and cliffs.

According to rock climbing history, rock climbing remained a part of mountaineering. It has remained as a form of training in order to improve their climbing skills and to learn several climbing techniques.

Rock climbing history states that this activity became popular in the U.S as an essential factor in mountain climbing during 1920s. Rock Climbing discovered its identity and people started to recognize rock climbing as an individual sport in 1950s.

More and more people went crazy for this freaky sport rock climbing. This gave the way for the development of grading system. Grading system gave an indication of how easy or difficult the climb is. The climber can choose the grade he wants to climb depending on his level of skill and expertise.

Grading system is different in different countries. Each country has developed its own grading system in order to assess the climber’s level of expertise. What came with this event was the development of different Climbing Styles that are based on the type of the terrain, with or without the use of ropes and several other gear, indoor or outdoor, etc.

Rock climbing history gradually came towards a trend that made shorter but more difficult and challenging climbs. Knowing that Rock Climbing as an outdoor sport could be really dangerous as it can cause fatal accidents. Safety and protection were greatly given importance. Techniques and advanced equipments came about as a natural development leading from harder and more challenging climbing routes.

As we have seen earlier rock climbing was yet a part of mountaineering. Many developments have happened and the invention of modern techniques over the years until it became a sport in its own right, and it continues to gain popularity and craze at present.

People of all ages are enjoying this addictive and exhilarating sport. The various techniques and equipments that have come about for an improved experience aid this passion. This enables the climbers to better enjoy what Rock Climbing has to offer.

Although the practice of rock climbing according to rock climbing history was an important part of Victorian mountaineering in the Alps, it is generally considered that the sport of rock climbing began in the last quarter of the 19th century in at least 3 areas Elbsandsteingebirge, in Saxony near Dresden, the Lake District of England, and the Dolomites in Italy.

Rock climbing evolved slowly from an alpine necessity to an athletic sport in its own right, making it imprudent to cite an Ancestor of the latter in each of these three locales. Thus, Rock climbing has become a popular sport among the adventure lovers whose daring actions literally secretes adrenaline for the spectators.

With snow blanketing the country in recent weeks and the doom and gloom prevailing at home, many of us are looking to holidays abroad for something invigorating and refreshing. Most people think of somewhere warm and sandy, longing for a tan and a good book on the beach, but holidays like that can feel stilted and predictable. We take a look at Menorcan holidays, which offer a superb beach experience, but also have something special in spring and all year round. The great variety of flora and fauna on the island make it stand out from more run of the mill beach holidays. Menorca’s great diversity can be seen throughout the island, and we count down the top five natural sites that you can explore while there…

5. The Countryside around Cala Galdana

Cala Galdana and the surrounding Cala’s are situated in lush, verdant countryside that evokes the kind of rural idyll similar to traditional English farmland. Rolling fields melt into picturesque woodland in some of the most beautiful scenery in Menorca. Holidays in this region allow you to blend together the natural beauty of the region with the great beaches on the coast.

4. S’Albufera des Grau

S’Albufera des Grau is a nature reserve on the east coast of Menorca. In October 1993, Menorca was designated by UNESCO as a biosphere reserve, and S’Albufera des Grau is one of the best places on a Menorcan holiday to view this diversity. Hundreds of species of birds, lizards, trees, flowers and grasses carpet the area with a vibrant and beautiful landscape – a great site to visit on a nature holiday in Menorca.

3. The Centre for the Recovery of Wild Animals

An animal sanctuary close to Ciutadella, the Centre for the Recovery of Wild Animals rescues, aids and nurtures animals from the Island that have been injured. They offer people on holidays in Menorca the ability to see recovering animals and learn more about them. A great attraction for families, the centre also runs educational games and events for children about conservation and the environment.

2. Cales Coves

Cales Coves have over 100 caves for you to explore on your holiday in Menorca. Some of the caves are natural, others man made or a mix of the two, but all are breathtaking and surrounded by plants, animals and sea life. There is no set tour, so you can actually explore for yourself the majesty of these caves.

1. Diving on the Es Caragol Reef

Diving anywhere while on holiday in Menorca is sure to uncover rich plumes of undersea plant life and exotic fish of all descriptions, but for some of the best diving try the Es Caragol Reef. The reef is only 1 kilometre from the shore, and accessible to novice and experienced divers alike. It showcases some of the most amazing natural sights that Menorcan holidays have to offer, as well as being a great dive. The reef has also been a shipping hazard for centuries, and clings to many of the barnacle-covered hulks of ships to this day, teaming with fish who use them as a new habitat.

MYCOTOXINS – NEW CHALLENGE FOR HUMAN AND ANIMAL’S HEALTH

 

Dr. Kedar Karki

 

 

Mycotoxins are the toxic chemicals produced by fungi for a variety of reasons. The word mycotoxin had been derived from Greek mykes, mukos as “fungus” and from  Latin toxicum as “poison” is a toxic secondary metabolite produced by an organism of the fungus kingdom, including mushrooms, molds, and yeasts. These include to attack or gain access to hosts by helping to dissolve cell membranes, or as protective measures against encroaching organisms. The production of mycotoxins within the fungus depends on food sources and the particular enzymes of the fungus and other environmental factors. Mycotoxins are usually not found in spores, but are generally produced in the next stage, that of mycelium. Many mycotoxins, such as Mycotoxin T2 (Fusariotoxin) or the Amanita-toxins can be lethal to animal and human. Others, such as Psilocybin, are entheogenic, producing altered states of consciousness that are usually associated with shamanism/religion. Others, such as the ergot derivatives are used for migraine and post-partum hemorrhage. Still others, such as penicillin, Fusaric acid, and Wortmannin have antibiotic effects, and Zearelenone with anabolic effects, but which may or may not be beneficial to the host organism depending on the mode of administration and dose.

 

Filamentous fungi, especially those of the Fusarium, Myrotecium, Trichoderma, and Stachybotrys genera, produce trichothecenes mycotoxins. These mycotoxins are extremely heat stable and resist ultraviolet light inactivation.

Mycotoxins are secondary metabolites of molds that have adverse effects on humans, animals, and crops that result in illnesses and economic losses. The worldwide contamination of foods and feeds with mycotoxins is a significant problem. Aflatoxins, ochratoxins, trichothecenes, zearelenone, fumonisins, tremorgenic toxins, and ergot alkaloids are the mycotoxins of greatest agro-economic importance. The majority of mycotoxins of agricultural importance are produced mainly by three genera of fungi- Aspergillus, Fusarium and Penicillium. Mycotoxins are present in more than 30% of the cereal produced in the world.

  The reasons why fungi produce Mycotoxins are largely unknown, but may be as a result of growing stress to the fungus, through harvesting or the use of fungicides. The type and amount of mycotoxins produced is influenced by many factors, including geographic location, climate and agricultural practices. Prediction is complicated especially by the fact that the toxins may persist long after the fungus is removed, and also that a fungal infestation does not always mean that mycotoxins contamination has occurred. Some molds are capable of producing more than one mycotoxin and some mycotoxins are produced by more than one fungal species. Often more than one mycotoxin is found on a contaminated substrate. Factors influencing the presence of mycotoxins in foods or feeds include environmental conditions related to storage that can be controlled. Other extrinsic factors such as climate or intrinsic factors such as fungal strain specificity, strain variation, and instability of toxigenic properties are more difficult to control.

 Health implications

 

Given their wide variety of chemical structures and the synergy with which various mixtures of Mycotoxins can occur in feed grains, it is to be expected that they should exhibit a range of symptoms. Indeed, the toxic effects can differ from animal to animal as well as between species. In general terms, toxicity manifests itself as reduced feed intake (can be as serious as anorexia), reduced growth and production as well as immune and reproductive abnormalities. Mycotoxins can appear in the food chain as a result of fungal infection of crops, either by being eaten directly by humans, or by being used as livestock feed. Mycotoxins greatly resist decomposition or being broken down in digestion, so they remain in the food chain in meat and dairy products. Even temperature treatments, such as cooking and freezing, do not destroy mycotoxins.

 

If the mycotoxins are ingested, they produce a lethal illness called alimentary toxic aleukia (ATA) with the following initial symptoms: abdominal pain, diarrhea, vomiting, and prostration. This progress into fever, chills, myalgias, and bone marrow depression causing granulocytopenia and sepsis. If the patient survives these initial stages, the next set of symptoms are painful pharyngeal/laryngeal ulceration and diffuse bleeding into the skin, bloody diarrhea, hematuria, hematemesis, epistaxis, and vaginal bleeding.

 

Mycotoxins can enter the body through the skin, stomach, or lungs and inhibit protein and nucleic acid synthesis. The first cells attacked are the rapidly dividing cells such as bone marrow, skin, mucosal epithelia, and germ cells. When skin is exposed to mycotoxins, burning, redness, blistering, and skin necrosis occur. When nasal mucosa is exposed to mycotoxins, this produces nasal pain, sneezing, rhinorrhea, dyspnoea, wheezing, cough, and blood tinged saliva and sputum. Exposure of the eyes to mycotoxins produces eye pain, tearing, redness, and blurred vision. Once the mycotoxins enter the system, symptoms include weakness, prostration, dizziness, ataxia, loss of coordination, and in fatal cases, tachycardia, hypothermia, and hypotension. Death may occur in minutes, hours, or days.

The main organs affected are the liver, kidneys, reproductive tract and upper alimentary tract. In poultry, the primary sites are the initial contact organs- the skin around the beak and head, the mucosal surfaces of the beak, and the digestive tract.

 

Thus, reduced feed intake, digestive disorders such as diarrhea, and reduced growth rate, decreased efficiency and reduced rate of lay are common. Liver damage, hemorrhage, kidney disorders and bone lesions are often seen in cases of acute toxicity. The specific symptoms have been found to depend on species, age, sex and especially on the toxin(s) present. Aflatoxin B1 is one of the most potent animal carcinogens found in nature. Young animals which consume 50-100 ng/kg feed on a regular basis can develop fatal liver cancer, though older animals may show only minor symptoms. Susceptibility also varies between species. Aflatoxin contamination of animal feed is not only a hazard to animal health. Although contaminated feed corn containing 100ppb aflatoxin can be fed to nonlactating animals (300ppb for finishing cattle and 150ppb for finishing pigs) without damage to the animals or without harmful toxin or its metabolites appearing in the edible parts of the animals, lactating animals pose a higher risk. Aflatoxin M1 is a metabolite of Aflatoxin B1, and appears in milk at levels which are 3-5 percent of the level of aflatoxin B1 in the feed consumed. Ochratoxin A has been found to appear in edible tissues of animals that received contaminated feed shortly before slaughter. Furthermore, it has also been detected in sausages, ham and bacon. It is a further danger to human health in that after ingestion it can be passed into the blood sera and milk.

Mycotoxins have various acute and chronic effects on humans and animals (especially monogastric) depending on species and susceptibility of an animal within a species. Ruminants have, however, generally been more resistant to the adverse effects of mycotoxins. This is because the rumen microbiota is capable of degrading mycotoxins.

There has been problem of disease like Deg Nala in buffaloes in many parts of tarai has been implicated due to moldy rice straw feeding in Pakistan, India, and Nepal since 1939.Likewise there has been too often reports about sudden death of mules in mountain area when these animals are in rout during transportation which are mainly fed grains like maiza, gram. Till dates finding had suggested the likely cause might be due contamination of the grains with fungus like Penicillium and Aspergillus.Likewise now a days commercial broiler farmers in around Kathmandu valley are facing problems in their grown up market age broiler dying suddenly during monsoon season laboratory finding have indicated the cause may be due to contamination of these bird’s feed by fungus like Penicillium and Aspergillus.

First time in Nepal farmers in Midwestern parts in districts like Banke immediately after monsoon last year have suffered the loss of goats due to polyneuropathy causing the paralysis of goat on laboratory investigation concern expert found the fodder in pasture in that area was being heavily contaminated with fungus Penicillium.In the light of above facts contamination of grains and livestock products are in increasing trend and many new diseases in livestock and poultry are being identified as fungal origin public consumption of these product may pose a health concern. But how much we are aware about it.

The economic impact of mycotoxins include loss of human and animal life, increased health care and veterinary care costs, reduced livestock production, disposal of contaminated foods and feeds, and investment in research and applications to reduce severity of the mycotoxin problem. Although efforts have continued internationally to set guidelines to control mycotoxins, practical measures have not been adequately implemented.