Tackling Planarian Worms

My blood parrot fish has been for weeks behaving strangely and exhibiting signs of unhappiness and discomfort. They used to be less afraid of me, less irritated and were very happy to munch on food and come closer to the tank walls to look at me when I stare at them from outside the tank walls. However, not only were they more timid, more "jumpy" and not willing to come and look at me, they were also

• Not eating. In fact, they would eat and puke it out almost instantly...
• Always finding ways to scratch themselves against tank decorations, gravels, anything they can get their skin on
• Easily scared, feeling less comfortable in their habitat.

I have not been able to diagnose the problem until a friend of mine who is experience in breeding fishes noticed that my tank was infested with white Planarian worms! 

You can find out more about the Planarian worms from these links I used

http://www.fishdeals.com/fish_diseases/planaria_white_worms/

http://www.aquariumfish.net/information/having_trouble_p2.htm

http://www.aquarticles.com/articles/management/Ali_Planaria_Worms.html

Majid Ali says in his article that "Planarian worms are tiny, thin and milky white in appearance. They are distantly related to flukes, and some of these worms have been implicated in skin slime problems with marine fish. They are usually seen slowly gliding over the surfaces of the tank, surfaces of the glass and under the lid of box filters."

They are indeed very hard to spot, especially in my case where they are so tiny. In fact, they are only a few mm long, thin and fine but if you stare at them long enough, you'll notice that those white thin "hair-like" worms actually move... 

Most websites would say that Planarian worms are "harmless", which I would actually disagree as it claimed the lives of one of my blood parrots. In small amount they are pretty harmless but when you have an infested tank, it is deadly... 

According to the above sources, Planarian worms appear because of over feeding and also high Ammonia level. For my case, I did a PH, Nitrate, Nitrite and Ammonia test and were all good levels, which means I already have a good eco-system running with lots of good bacteria inside, so the only problem left was overfeeding.

Anyhow, first thing I needed to do was to kill off the Planarian worms (duh...). The online sources recommended Quick Cure but unfortunately I couldn't find Quick Cure in any of the aquatic pet stores I visited. I was recommended Seachem's Para Guard by one of the friendly store owner's son.

Tried it and it seems to work pretty decently. First day of dosage, left it over night, I can already see most of the Planarian worms no longer stick to the wall (probably dead) and many more motionless on the tank walls. Did a 25% water change, added more Para Guard and now it looks like the Planarian population in my tank has already been reduced by 90%! 

Some forumers recommended API General Cure (Prazi & Metro) which I have not tried. I might try it if my Planarian worm issue still persists.

So now my objective is to go with the direction that "prevention is better than cure". The problem I noted is that my blood parrot likes to eat their food in whole, chew them and spit out some left overs which are left to drop on the gravel, hence leaving uneaten food (they don't seem to go back down to eat them...). So in the end, I bought 4 mini koi's and drop them into the aquarium. Koi's are like goldfish, never know when to stop eating, so my koi's are happily eating all the leftovers on the gravel that my blood parrot drops. Hahahaha!

Lets hope this works and no more Planarian worms in my tank!

Laptop Reliability

I don't want to discourage people from buying certain brands of laptop but maybe this will help in your next choice! =P

So yes, try not to ask me if my companies laptop are good. =P

Read the full report from Square Trade: http://www.squaretrade.com/htm/pdf/SquareTrade_laptop_reliability_1109.pdf

Swine Flu

Info shared by my boss. ^_^


Dear All,
The World Health Organisation has declared a level 4 alert for Swine Flu. It is wise to be aware of what is happening and to be prepared on how to manage it.
Please spend a few minutes of your time to read through the FAQs below, which was also available in The Star newspaper yesterday.
To recap, the Health Ministry has advised against travel to some parts of United States, Mexico and Canada which have been affected by the swine flu.

What is swine influenza?
It is a respiratory disease of pigs caused by type A strains of the influenza virus. It regularly causes high flu outbreaks in pigs but with low death rates. There are four main sub-types of the virus, but the most recent isolated influenza viruses from pigs have been H1N1 viruses.

How does it spread?
Swine flu viruses do not typically infect humans though they do occur through close proximity or contact with infected pigs or contaminated areas. Cases of human-to-human spread have been documented.

What are the symptoms?
The symptoms are similar to those of regular flu:
- Fever
- Lethargy
- Runny nose
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Lack of appetite
- Vomiting and diarrhoea in some cases.

How common is swine flu infection in humans?
In the past, reports of about one human swine flu virus infection had been received every one to two years in the United States. From December 2005 till February 2009, 12 cases have been reported.

Has this strain of flu been seen before?
No. Flu mutates constantly, so it is common for new strains to emerge. Pigs can also be infected with both human and avian influenza, and the current circulating swine flu strain appears to contain genetic elements from all three.

Can swine flu be treated with antiviral drugs and flu vaccine?
The swine flu is resistant to two common drugs – Amantadine and Rimantadine. The H1N1 swine flu viruses are very different from human H1N1 viruses. Therefore, vaccines for human seasonal flu would not provide protection. However, a “seed vaccine” has been specifically tailored to this swine flu and will be manufactured if officials deem it necessary.

Can people catch swine flu by eating pork?
No. Swine influenza viruses are not transmitted by food. Eating properly handled and cooked pork and pork products is safe. Cooking pork to an internal temperature of 70ºC and above kills the swine flu virus.

How long is someone with swine flu considered contagious?
People with swine influenza virus infection should be considered potentially contagious as long as they are symptomatic; possibly for up to seven days following the onset of the illness. Children, especially younger children, might potentially be contagious for longer periods.

What can I do to protect myself from the swine flu?
There is no vaccine available right now to protect against the swine flu.
However, you can help prevent the spread of germs that cause respiratory illnesses like influenza by:
- Covering your nose and mouth with a disposable tissue or handkerchief when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the waste basket after you use it.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also helpful
- Try to avoid close contact with sick people. - If you get sick with influenza, stay at home and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
- Consult your nearest healthcare facility if you think you have any of the symptoms.
Which countries have had cases of the swine flu?
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has confirmed human cases of swine flu in Mexico, the United States, Canada and Spain. Only Mexico has reported deaths from the new strain.
Are there any travel restrictions or advisories for Malaysians?
The Health Ministry on April 27 advised Malaysians against travelling to certain places in the United States, Mexico and Canada which have been affected by the swine flu..
What precautions are in place in Malaysia?
- The Health Ministry’s operations room in Putrajaya has started a 24-hour monitoring of the situation. The public can call 03-8881 0200/300 for enquiries.
- Those returning from Latin American countries and found to have flu-like symptoms will be quarantined.
- Health Ministry officials are conducting health screenings on passengers arriving from the United States.
- Thermal scanners will be placed at international airports to speed up the screening process for swine flu.
- Public and private medical practitioners have been instructed to report to the district health office any patient with influenza-like illnesses or severe pneumonia symptoms and who had travelled to the affected countries after April 17.
- Owners of the 797 pig farms nationwide have been ordered to immediately contact the nearest Veterinary Services Department office or the Animal Disease Control Centre if their workers or animals show symptoms linked to the swine flu

Going Banana's!

A professor at CCNY for a physiological psych class told his class about bananas. He said the expression 'going bananas' is from the effects of bananas on the brain. Read on:

Never, put your banana in the refrigerator!!!

This is interesting.
After reading this, you'll never look at a banana in the same way again.
Bananas contain three natural sugars - sucrose, fructose and glucose combined with fiber. A banana gives an instant, sustained and substantial boost of energy.
Research has proven that just two bananas provide enough energy for a strenuous 90-minute workout. No wonder the banana is the number one fruit with the world's leading athletes.

But energy isn't the only way a banana can help us keep fit. It can also help overcome or prevent a substantial number of illnesses and conditions, making it a must to add to our daily diet.

Depression: According to a recent survey undertaken by MIND amongst people suffering from depression, many felt much better after eating a banana. This is because bananas contain tryptophan, a type of protein that the body converts into serotonin, known to make you relax, improve your mood and generally make you feel happier.

PMS: Forget the pills - eat a banana. The vitamin B6 it contains regulates blood glucose levels, which can affect your mood.

Anemia : High in iron, bananas can stimulate the production of hemoglobin in the blood and so helps in cases of anemia.

Blood Pressure: This unique tropical fruit is extremely high in potassium yet low in salt, making it perfect to beat blood pressure. So much so, the US Food and Drug Administration has just allowed the banana industry to make official claims for the fruit's ability to reduce the risk of blood pressure and stroke.

Brain Power: 200 students at a Twickenham (Middlesex) school ( England ) were helped through their exams this year by eating bananas at breakfast, break, and lunch in a bid to boost their brain power. Research has shown that the potassium-packed fruit can assist learning by making pupils more alert.

Constipation: High in fiber, including bananas in the diet can help restore normal bowel action, helping to overcome the problem without resorting to laxatives.

Hangovers: One of the quickestways of curing a hangover is to make a banana milkshake, sweetened with honey.. The banana calms the stomach and, with the help of the honey, builds up depleted blood sugar levels, while the milk soothes and re-hydrates your system.

Heartburn: Bananas have a natural antacid effect in the body, so if you suffer from heartburn, try eating a banana for soothing relief.

Morning Sickness: Snacking on bananas between meals helps to keep blood sugar levels up and avoid morning sickness.

Mosquito bites: Before reaching for the insect bite cream, try rubbing the affected area with the inside of a banana skin. Many people find it amazingly successful at reducing swelling and irritation.

Nerves: Bananas are high in B vitamins that help calm the nervous system.
Overweight and at work? Studies at the Institute of Psychology in Austria found pressure at work leads to gorging on comfort food like chocolate and chips. Looking at 5,000 hospital patients, researchers found the most obese were more likely to be in high-pressure jobs. The report concluded that, to avoid panic-induced food cravings, we need to control our blood sugar levels by snacking on high carbohydrate foods every two hours to keep levels steady.

Ulcers: The banana is used as the dietary food against intestinal disorders because of its soft texture and smoothness. It is the only raw fruit that can be eaten without distress in over-chronicler cases. It also neutralizes over-acidity and reduces irritation by coating the lining of the stomach.

Temperature control: Many other cultures see bananas as a 'cooling' fruit that can lower both the physical and emotional temperature of expectant mothers. In Thailand , for example, pregnant women eat bananas to ensure their baby is born with a cool temperature.

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): Bananas can help SAD sufferers because they contain the natural mood enhancer tryptophan.

Smoking & Tobacco Use: Bananas can also help people trying to give up smoking. The B6, B12 they contain, as well as the potassium and magnesium found in them, help the body recover from the effects of nicotine withdrawal.

Stress: Potassium is a vital mineral, which helps normalize the heartbeat, sends oxygen to the brain and regulates your body's water balance. When we are stressed, our metabolic rate rises, thereby reducing our potassium levels. These can be rebalanced with the help of a high-potassium banana snack.

Strokes: According to research in The New England Journal of Medicine, eating bananas as part of a regular diet can cut the risk of death by strokes by as much as 40%!

Warts: Those keen on natural alternatives swear that if you want to kill off a wart, take a piece of banana skin and place it on the wart, with the yellow side out. Carefully hold the skin in place with a plaster or surgical tape!

So, a banana really is a natural remedy for many ills.. When you compare it to an apple, it has four times the protein, twice the carbohydrate, three times the phosphorus, five times the vitamin A and iron, and twice the other vitamins and minerals. It is also rich in potassium and is one of the best value foods around So maybe its time to change that well-known phrase so that we say, 'A banana a day keeps the doctor away!'

PS: Bananas must be the reason monkeys are so happy all the time! I will add one here; want a quick shine on our shoes?? Take the INSIDE of the banana skin, and rub directly on the shoe...polish with dry cloth. Amazing fruit !!!

Cyberjaya No Longer a Dream City - The Star

Sad but true.... Pictures are things I see everyday during lunch hours, LOL

See the star article on Cyberjaya no longer a dream city

Surviving in Malaysia

Enlarge the picture to read the contents. =)

Google Web Browser - Chrome

Google has announced the launch of its new FREE Web Browser they call "Chrome". Be sure to download it and stop supporting INTERNET EXPLORER!!!!!!! I'll definitely be downloading it and trying to compare with the new FireFox 3.0 (Lets leave IE out of the picture). =P

Its expected to be launched on Tuesday, which I guess means American's Tuesday. Perhaps for us Malaysians, we can get it tonight or tomorrow morning. Anyway, here are some articles with regards to the latest hype about Chrome. =]

CNN Announcement
Blog about Chrome
Chrome Story by Google

Looks interesting. ^_^

Fuel Stretch Tips

This appeared on our Shell web....

Fuel Stretch tips

• Change gear in good time
• Drive smoothly - avoid hard acceleration
• Avoid sudden braking
• Make sure your tyres are properly inflated
• Avoid over revving your car
• Avoid carrying excess weight
• Switch off your engine when it's not in use
• Use your air-conditioning sparingly
• Keep your engine well-tuned and serviced
• Avoid high speeds
• Change your oil regularly
• Use a high quality motor oil - like Shell Helix
  

FYI, don't use Shell Helix. There are other high quality motor oil. =P

Malaysia Change in Service Tax Legislation

With effect from 1 July 2008, many restaurants located outside hotels, including food courts, are no longer subject to service tax. This is due to a change in legislation that requires only outlets with annual sales turnover exceeding RM3 million to collect service tax. Consequently, this can mean a 5% reduction in the cost of entertainment. Please check your bill to ensure that you are not being overcharged.

The lowdown on high gasoline prices

If oil companies are making record profits, why can’t they give drivers a break and reduce prices at the pump? Here's what Shell has to say about them and some frequently asked questions.

Why does the price of gasoline continue to rise?
Gasoline prices are determined by a set of unique conditions within different localities and vary widely around the world. In many countries, the largest single element is not the cost of crude oil, but rather government taxes. In some European countries, taxes can represent as much as 75% of the price the customer pays at the pump.

Nevertheless, the cost of crude is significant and, in countries where gasoline taxes are lower, it is the major factor in the cost of gasoline. Crude oil is trading well above $100 per barrel on the open market, and is being driven by the world’s growing demand for energy. Finally, the price of gasoline also needs to include refining, distribution and operating costs. So the margin left for oil companies is usually a small percentage of the pump price – much lower than most customers realize.

Worldwide demand for crude oil and refined products has increased rapidly in recent years, led by the explosive growth of the economies in China, India and other Pacific Rim nations, and the supply of crude has been hard put to keep pace with that demand. Some people suggest that crude prices also are being elevated by geopolitical tensions and, possibly, by financial speculators. To whatever extent these factors exist, they are beyond our control. We must deal with the market as it is, and in this regard, supply and demand prevail.

Don’t the major oil companies control the crude market?
There are more than 3,500 oil companies in the world. Shell produces only 3% of the world’s crude, and we refine more crude oil than we produce. Shell, therefore, must purchase oil on the spot market to meet refining and retail demands. As a result, Shell is subject to market fluctuations in price and supply, as are other oil companies. Crude prices in each country are set by supply and demand, and are influenced by such factors as OPEC supply restrictions, weather, stock levels and the sentiment of financial markets.

Oil companies continue to report record earnings. Aren’t they just profiteering from high crude oil and gasoline prices?
The energy industry is one of the world’s largest and most complex industries. Profits are large because the business is large, with very large investments. Strong earnings among all the major oil companies enable reinvestment in both the upstream and downstream parts of their businesses. The industry is spending at record levels to increase supply to meet the growing global demand for energy.

Why can’t oil companies use their upstream profits to subsidise pump prices?
Producing crude oil involves long-term and high-risk projects requiring billions of dollars in investment over 20-to-30 years. Higher profits in some periods help safeguard investments when oil prices -- and profits -- are lower at other times.

What is Shell doing to increase crude supplies?
In line with our strategy of “more upstream and profitable downstream,” we are directing about 80% of our $27 billion capital spending programme for 2008 into upstream projects. This is the largest capital spending programme in Shell history, and the largest in industry. In total, we have some 10 billion barrels of upstream resources under development, which will add around 1 million barrels per day of production.

Does Shell set the pump prices at its sites?
This varies according to country and the operating model of each site. In some countries, pump prices are set by the government, and Shell and other retailers must comply. In many countries, some sites are owned by Shell and some are owned by independent dealers. Shell works very hard to maintain competitive prices at the pump – it is not in our best interest to do otherwise. For dealer-operated sites, the dealers own the fuel on their sites and, by law, have the right to set prices as they see fit. Dealers also have to compete rigorously with competitors so it’s in their best interest to price competitively at the pump as well.

Throughout the world, the retail industry is extremely competitive. In most countries, companies have to display pump prices so customers can make a choice. Even where pump prices are set by governments, companies compete strongly in a range of other areas, including design, visibility, convenience/location, customer service, prices of other products and availability of other services.

Does Shell engage in price gouging at its retail sites?
Shell does not engage in or condone the practice of introducing excessive price increases, and will investigate any such allegations. If a customer feels that a gasoline station is charging a price that is excessive when contrasted to comparable sites, he or she should contact the relevant trading standards agency and provide them with the contact details.

So what can drivers do to save money on gasoline?
The way you drive and the way you maintain your vehicle can help reduce your fuel consumption and save you money. Here are some tips:
1. Drive smoothly, avoiding heavy acceleration or braking.
2. Manual cars -- change up to a higher gear as early as possible as you accelerate.
3. Automatic cars -- shift up gears more quickly if you ease back on the accelerator once the car gathers momentum.
4. Keep your engine well tuned, check your oil and fix any problems immediately.
5. Make sure your tires are at the correct pressure and not under- or over-inflated.
6. Keep your trunk/boot or back seat clear of unnecessary items that add weight.
7. If you are not using your roof rack or roof box, take it off.
8. Keep your windows closed, especially if you are driving at higher speeds.
9. Always use the recommended grade of oil in your engine.
10. Use cruise control on major roads and in free-flowing traffic.
11. Turn off your engine in heavy traffic to avoid excessive idling.

Epiphone Serial Numbers

Own an Epiphone? Ever wondered if your Epiphone was really made in Korea or China? Well, if your Epiphone doesn't even have a serial number, mwahahha, you probably landed yourself on a fake or a replica. Anyway, check your serial numbers and it should tell you where it is manufactured from using the following codes:

 

KOREA: I= Saein,U=Unsung,S=Samick,P or R=Peerless
CHINA: DW=DeaWon,EA=Gibson/QingDao,EE=Gibson/QingDao,MC=Muse,SJ=SaeJung,Z=Zaozhuang Saehan,BW=China
JAPAN: No letter or F=FujiGen,J or T=Terada
INDONESIA: SI=Samick
Example: U8034853

U=Unsung,8=1998,03=March,4853=manufacturing number.

If yours has 8 digits, the first 2 digits is the year. Usually, its something like 08 or 07 (2008 or 2007)

 

I'm so glad mines a genuine Korean Epiphone. =)