Use Full Tips

SIMPLE TIPS TO EASE BACK PAIN AT NIGHT

noreply@blogger.com (Zakir Hussain) — Thu, 06 Oct 2011 04:24:00 +0000

Millions of Americans suffer from restless, uncomfortable sleep, and poor body support at night may be the root of the problem. Aligning your body the way nature intended can minimize tossing and turning, relieve aches and pains and alleviate morning stiffness, helping you eel better all day

Specialist says that the importance of leg support at night is often over-looked. “Stress and discomfort often result from the upper leg and knee being unsupported during side sleeping. The sleeper instinctively shifts the upper knee forward, causing the hips and spine to rotate, putting a twisting force on the lower ace. This often leads to low back pain at night and can aggravate an existing condition.

“The solution is to place a leg pillow between your lower thighs. This keeps the upper legs even, eliminating pressure on the knees and drastically reducing the tendency to twist the hips, maintaining a comfortable open side posture helps keep your spine in a natural, relaxed position for a great night sleep.”

HERE ARE SOME TIPS TO HELP YOU PROPERLY ALIGN YOUR BODY FOR RESTFUL SLEEP:

• The National Institutes of Health recommends sleeping with a pillow between your legs as a treatment for low back pain.

• Head pillows should be shaped to support the curve of your cervical spine Leg pillows should Tithe shape of your legs to comfortably slay put at night.

• Look for mattress pads that support the curve of your lumbar spine, rather than Just a flat piece of foam.

The two most important features to consider when choosing body alignment products are shape and material.

Memory foam best relieves pressure points, while fiberfill offers a softer feel and more ventilation.

Baby dental care suggestions

noreply@blogger.com (Zakir Hussain) — Thu, 06 Oct 2011 04:24:00 +0000

Baby dental care suggestions
• let your child brush first when teaching them, and then help them with their brushing

Baby dental care

• don’t be concerned at first with trying to brush all the teeth at each session
• reinforce your teaching with positive role modeling, make sure your child sees you brush and floss regularly – they will want to mimic you
• let them play with a toothbrush anywhere in the house so that they era comfortable with it (monitor – not to at them run around with it unwatched)

Remain healthy through the years……

noreply@blogger.com (Zakir Hussain) — Thu, 06 Oct 2011 04:23:00 +0000

Women’s Health Guide for Their 20s, 30s, 40s, 50s and Beyond
It is projected that by the year 2050, 20.7 percent of the population will be comprised of individuals over the age of 65, °cording to the U.S. Bureau of the Census, Resident Population Proletarians by Sex and Age: 2505 to 2050. As such, there has been much health hype lately, particularly for the senior woman. But paying attention to healthy life styles is something that should begin early on in a woman’s life and be customized to her needs on she ages.
20s
Women on the tail end of adolescence and beginning their adult lives may be in prime health. However, it is never too early to start planning your future. Throughout your life, you require calcium as an essential mineral for bone health aid strength – something that diminishes as you age. During your 20s, you need 1000 mg daily. Which can be comprised of calcium rich foods like dairy products and combination of supplements.
30’s
Women ore remaining fertile longer than in past years. This makes the 30s one of the prime time for women to have children, which begins at age 25 and continues through age 34, according the U.S. Deportment of Health and Human Services. Therefore much of the attention pooh place on health may revolve around your dads’. to conoeire. If you’re planning on having a child soon, rile a goad k6a to spook to your OB/GYN about prescription for folic acid.
This supplement has been shown to reduce the risk of some birth defects and therefore is something essential for mothers to be.
If you have been by on visiting the dentist, gel back in to routine with checkups and Cleanings. Tooth and gum health can actually affect other areas of the body. In fact, advanced gum disease has been linked in stroke in some people. By keeping your mouth healthy. you’ll be keeping your entire body beatify as well.
40’s
This transition time of life con is a roller coaster of emotions. You’re moving out of your childbearing years and towards menopause. This is the time when you’re officially “aging.’ You’re no logo building bane moss; in fact, you could be slowly losing it. Your metabolism may have also started to slow down, resoling in a softening of body shape.
Visiting the doctor may become more commonplace in this decade. You should begin annual fecal occult tests to check for blood in your stool – an indication of possible colon cancer.
50s
Many people consider this decade “the prime of life’ because you’re Free of menstruation for wool, free of your children for and are able to enjoy life. At this stage in the game, skin health and care should be of top concern; previous sun tanning and misinformation from your youth may have resulted in ego spats, wrinkling and dried out skin. While you may not be able to reserve all effects, you can be small about using sun block, moisturizer and mild soaps on your delicate skin. Also, drink plenty of water to stay hydrated from the inside.

Be careful of Alvin Phang’s course on making money through blogs!

noreply@blogger.com (Zakir Hussain) — Thu, 06 Oct 2011 04:21:00 +0000

I have to qualify first that I personally did not attend this course held recently in Kuala Lumpur by facilitator Alvin Phang, on the topic of how to make money online or by blogging. The title of the workshop escaped me but it’s something to do with teaching people how to make money on their blogs.

I believe Alvin Phang comes from Singapore and claims to have made many thousands of dollars through his blogging, mainly from affiliate programs. Someone I know went for the course and after completing the 2-day course which was held at Wisma MCA during a recent weekend, I asked how it went, what he learned and gained. He kindly shared with me and to my horror, I found that people should be made aware of some hidden agenda. Read below on how I think Alvin cheats on his earnings from affiliate programs and Adsense.

Firstly, I would like to qualify also that I believe Alvin Phang has made his course specially for people who do not know anything about blogging and setting up blogs. He helps them to register a domain of their choice and subsequently helps to install Wordpress on it and proceed to set it up including installing a theme for all participants. They all use a theme designed by him.

They are told that for the RM2,500 course held in Malaysia, it not only includes the workshop fee but they also get the domain name and 1-year hosting of their site. I expected the participants to then get full access to their web host and also domain name manager so that they are fully empowered to manage their own blogs.

As it turns out, they do not have any control over the web host nor the domain name. I figured that Alvin probably earned his affiliate income signing up everyone for a domain name and a 1-year web host service. And since they do not have any control over this and thus will not learn how to manage any of these services going forward, they seem to be locked in for as long as they don’t transfer out the domain and continue using the web host provider they signed up with. Wow, that’s year after year of affiliate income for Alvin, isn’t it?

That’s not all, Alvin also removed the permission to edit any of the theme settings in Wordpress administration. This means that they cannot change the template, cannot tweak the theme in anyway. Not even to install any plugins! All they get to do is post entries, add some widgets in the sidebar, put up some affiliate banners and that’s about it.

Why shouldn’t the owners of the blogs be allowed to manage all these fundamental things in their very own blogs? I’ll tell you why. Or at least I think I figured the reason why Alvin locked it.

Alvin made it known to the participants that he DOES NOT believe in making money from Google Adsense. If you visit his various sites, you will not find a single unit of Adsense being used. Fair enough. But do you know what he has done with all the participants’ blogs? He inserted Adsense into them and those Adsense units are not from the participants’ Google Adsense accounts! Whose are they? Must be Alvin’s, right?

He inserted those Adsense into the sidebar of the blogs but he did so sneakily. He did not insert them using the widgets because blog owners can change and even remove them. He included the Adsense codes into the sidebar.php file which is kept locked and inaccessible to these blog owners. So how are they going to remove these Adsense? They simply can’t.

So if Alvin does not believe in Adsense, why did he so sneakily incorporate them into other people’s blogs and lock it so that it cannot be removed? Answer is simple. Alvin does believe in Adsense. He just doesn’t put them into his own blogs but make his Adsense income via other people’s blogs. God knows how many similar courses he’s conducted and how many participants’ blogs he has set up with his Adsense code incorporated.

Now if you think about it, Alvin is a smart businessman who not only makes money from the seminar fees collected, he is also making affiliate income from all the domain names and web host sign ups, including any clicks of those Adsense on other people’s blogs. No wonder he can claim to have made hundreds of thousands through affiliate programs. So now you understand the secret of his making so much money from affiliate programs. Clever business idea, isn’t it?

I won’t comment on the content of his seminar. I’m sure for beginners they would have learned a lot since they start out with no knowledge whatsoever. I’m only warning you of what he does behind your back, telling half-truths and lying about his sentiments on Adsense when he’s riding on it through you!

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Mobile Phones Must Known Codes - Very Usefull

noreply@blogger.com (Zakir Hussain) — Mon, 03 Oct 2011 16:56:00 +0000

TIPS 'n' TRICKS

1 Imagine ur cell battery is very low, u r expecting an important call and u don't have a charger.

Nokia instrument comes with a reserve battery. To activate, key is "3370#"

Ur cell will restart with this reserve and ur instrument will show a 50% incerase in battery.

This reserve will get charged when u charge ur cell next time.

3370# Activate Enhanced Full Rate Codec(EFR)
-Your phone uses the best sound quality but talk time is reduced by approx 5%

#3370# Deactivate Enhanced Full Rate Codec( EFR)

#4720# Activate Half Rate Codec - Your phone uses a lower quality sound
but you should gain approx 30% more Talk Time

#4720# Deactivate Half Rate Codec

2 #0000# Displays your phones software version,

1st Line : SoftwareVersion,
2nd Line : Software ReleaseDate,
3rd Line : Compression Type

3 #9999# Phones software v ersion if #0000# does not work

4 #06# For checking the International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI Number)

5 #pw+1234567890+1# Provider Lock Status.
(use the "" button to obtain the "p,w" and "+" symbols)

6 #pw+1234567890+2# Network Lock Status.
(use the "" button to obtain the "p,w" and "+" symbols)

7 #pw+1234567890+3# Country Lock Status.
(use the "" button to obtain the "p,w" and "+" symbols)

8 #pw+1234567890+4# SIM Card Lock Status.
(use the "" button to obtain the "p,w" and "+" symbols)

9 #147# (vodafone) this lets you know who called you last #1471# Last call (Only vodofone)

10 #21# Allows you to check the number that "All Calls" are diverted To

11 #2640# Displays security code in use

12 #30# Lets you see the private number

13 #43# Allows you to check the "Call Waiting" status of your phone.

14 #61# Allows you to check the number that "On No Reply" calls are diverted to

15 #62# Allows you to check the number that "Divert If Unrea chable(no service)" calls are diverted to

16 #67# Allows you to check the number that "On Busy Calls" are diverted to

17 #67705646# Removes operator logo on 3310 & 3330

18 #73# Reset phone timers and game scores

19 #746025625# Displays the SIM Clock status, if your phone supports this power saving feature
"SIM Clock Stop Allowed",it means you will get the best standby time possible

20 #7760# Manufactures code

21 #7780# Restorefa ctory settings

22 #8110# Software version for the nokia 8110

23 #92702689# (to rember #WAR0ANTY#)

Displays -

1.Serial Number,
2.Date Made
3.Purchase Date,
4.Date of lastrepair (0000 for no repairs),
5.Transfer UserData.

To exit this mode-you need to switch your phone off then on again

24 #94870345123456789# Deactivate the PWM-Mem

25 **21*number# Turn on "All Calls" diverting to the phone number entered

26 **61*number# Turn on "No Reply" diverting to the phone number entered

27 **67*number# Turn on "On Busy" diverting to the phone number entered

28 12345 This is the default security code press and hold # Lets you switch between lines

Facebook Usefull Tips and Tricks

noreply@blogger.com (Zakir Hussain) — Mon, 03 Oct 2011 16:54:00 +0000

A lot of people post and post away on Facebook and never get the results they had hoped for. Whether it’s not getting new fans or not getting anyone interacting with them, it’s just not making business happen. We all want great brand ambassadors, right? Did you ever consider that maybe your posts just aren't getting to those people that will be your brand ambassadors? Here are some tips on how to change that.

1-Set a username:-

If you go to Facebook’s (username) page, you will get a screen that looks like this:

From here you can change your personal username (if you haven’t already) or you can choose a page from the menu to pick your page’s username. You should do this, because it makes your page more sharable. If you don’t, you will be telling people to either search for you on Facebook or give them a url that is not easy to remember. Make it short and make it memorable and you can spread the word about your great page much easier.

2-Ask a question:-

Facebook has this lovely little thing called an algorithm. It decides just how many people will see your posts. Yup, not all of your fans are seeing your posts. Facebook uses a few factors when deciding if fans will see a particular post. The first is engagement. Are people liking it? But more importantly, are they commenting? If you post about this Thursday’s happy hour with just the details, your fans will just acknowledge it and move on with no reason to act. If you post about the happy hour and ask which of the one hundred beers at this particular bar are you going to try first, suddenly your fans have something to react to. And suddenly more people see your post. Win-win.

3-Post frequently:-

The other major part of the algorithm is frequency of posts. At a bare minimum, you have to post every other day. Otherwise, your fans will not see all of your posts. Better yet is trying to post every day. The easiest way to keep up with this kind of demand is to create a calendar ahead of time and write out your posts, along with any links, media or tags that you will have to include. Remember, there is too much of a good thing. You will know if you are posting too much when your fans stop interacting with you and yes, that will mean your post will no longer be seen. Play with it and find your sweet spot. But, to be honest, anything more than two is probably too much.

4-You can only post one event at a time:-

I cannot stress this enough. I get so many event invites it’s ridiculous. Sometimes five at a time from one page. As soon as I see that, I just reply no without even looking at what the event is. Look at what you are trying to promote. Would it be better served by a like button? Or maybe it’s just something you can post about? Most likely yes and yes. Events are overused and are not as effective as you think. A Facebook like button flies a lot faster and will probably give you the mileage you want. But if you absolutely have to do an event, only do one.

5-Links are customizable:-

You probably know that you can pick what picture you use when you post a link, but did you know that you can change the text too? It’s a nice trick to have in case you’re posting a pdf or any link that doesn’t have good SEO information (if it’s your site, fix that). It’s also nice to have when you want to call attention to a part of an article that maybe doesn’t get mentioned in the description. To do this, all you have to do is click on the text that is generated when you input the link. So you can take a link about online safety.

and turn it into a link about my psycho obsession with the most awesome cat in the world.

Pretty cool, huh?

6-Post via Facebook:-

This is my controversial advice. There are lots of reasons to do it. You can’t tag people and pages when in an application, links don’t appear correctly, etc. I could seriously go on all night. But I actually have a better reason: Your post may not be seen. Here is what I saw under a Facebook post today.

Do you know what I saw when I clicked on it? Posts from five pages and two friends. I honestly just thought most of those affected by this never posted. Apparently they do. I just never see it. A lot of us spend a lot of time railing against those that tweet via Facebook. Well, guess what. The reverse is true too. And I hate to tell you guys, but this is what happens when you use Networked Blogs or other such programs to post your blog posts to Facebook. Oh and Hootsuite and Tweetdeck? They do it too! You’re shorting yourself and your fans by using these programs. Take five seconds and just do it in Facebook.

7-You can remove posts:-

Sometimes people post things on your page that are just inappropriate. This is your page. You set the rules. I suggest removing any inflammatory posts or any obvious spam. Beyond that, keep the others and respond where appropriate (and it’s almost always appropriate). To remove posts, all you have to do is hover on the right corner of the post. An “x” shows up and you can identify the post as spam or just delete it. So, if you currently have your wall closed to comments, you just lost your reason, so open it up now.

8-Do not constantly change your page’s picture:-

This is one of my biggest pet peeves. I’m a content curator. I’m looking to take your great press and use it elsewhere so that more people know about how awesome you are. In doing that, I usually scan through Facebook looking for the people and pages that provide the most content for me. I’m not looking at names. I’m looking at pictures. So, in other words, if you keep changing your picture every two days, I’m going to miss you and I’m going to bereally annoyed by that. Normal people who want to interact with you are doing this too, but to a lesser degree. Once again, you’re cheating yourself out of engagement. Keep it consistent and/or recognizable.

9-Highlight your fans:-

This is one of my favorite tricks. If done correctly, it drives your fans’ friends to your page. If done incorrectly, no one sees it. If you are a DMO, I would start with a tourism business of the week. Tag them in the post and also put the link of their Facebook page into it (the picture makes it prettier). What happens is that the business will be happy that you highlighted them (good relationship builder) and they will, in turn, post about it (good fan base builder). Once you have a great fan base, then you might want to consider highlighting your fans that might come for a visit. However, this gets trickier since you can’t tag them. They won’t be alerted to the honor and might miss it. But it is something to play with and might get people looking for your posts.

Budget Removals of Portsmouth

noreply@blogger.com (Zakir Hussain) — Mon, 03 Oct 2011 16:49:00 +0000

Usefull tips

Here are a few tips we have to help insure your move goes smoothly.
Heavy items
Heavy items such as books sould be packed into smaller boxes. Place heavier items at the bottom of larger boxes but never make them so heavy that they cant be lifted safely by one person. If a partly filled box is already heavy add somethimg light on top to fill it such as cusions.
Boxes
Always make sure the boxes are strong enough for the job. We do provide FREE BOXES so please let us know if you require them.
Other
You can leave items such as clothes in drawers as long at it can be lifted safely by two people. Soft items are best packed in bin bags as this help when it comes to loading the lorry.

Re: Some Really Usefull Tips About Shipping A Car/truck To Africa:

noreply@blogger.com (Zakir Hussain) — Mon, 03 Oct 2011 16:45:00 +0000

SHIPPING COST OF CARS TO WEST AFRICA.

Category I Category II Category III
up to 400 cft 401-650 cft 651-899 cft
Used Cars Used Small Vans Used Big Vans

Dakar & Tema: $1,210.00 $1,255.00 $1,575.00

Lagos $1,345.00 $1,400.00 $1,895.00

Douala,
Pointe Noire,
Monrovia,
Banjul,
Conakry,
Freetown $1,650.00 $1,950.00 $2,290.00

Luanda & Boma $1,695.00 $1,750.00 $2,145.00

Lome & Cotonou $1,400.00 $1,480.00 $1,825.00

*******All Cotonou Shipments are subject to a $35 Cargo Tracking Note**

How to Open Office 2007 Documents in Older Versions of Office

noreply@blogger.com (Zakir Hussain) — Tue, 20 Sep 2011 07:06:00 +0000

With Microsoft Office 2007, Microsoft introduced a new set of file formats: .docx, .xlsx, and .pptx, all not compatible with previous Microsoft Office versions. So if somebody sends you a Word 2007 document and you use Word XP, an error message awaits you. Luckily, the fix is easy: Use the Office plugin named Microsoft Office Compatibility Pack for Word, Excel, and PowerPoint 2007 File Formats.

MOCPWEP2007FF enables you to open/edit/save Office 2007 documents in Office 2000, 2003, or XP without any work on your part. Just make sure that your office has the latest Service Pack installed - either SP3 for Office 2000 and XP, or SP1 for Office 2003.

If you don’t want to go all that difficulty and you just need to convert just a single .docx file, point your browser to docx-converter.com. Upload your file, select your preferred format (.doc is just one choice), and enter your email address. In a moment, you should get a note containing a link to download the converted file. It’s a free service.

Nvidia Details Fermi-Based GF100 GPU Specifications

noreply@blogger.com (Zakir Hussain) — Tue, 20 Sep 2011 07:05:00 +0000

Nvidia has officially confirmed that their Fermi GF100 GPU will utilize 384-bit GDDR5 memory bus, 512 CUDA processors, 48 ROP engines and 16 geometry units.

The GF100 is expected to include 64 texture units, four raster units and DirectX 11 support as well.

According to ZDNet’s Adrian Kingsley-Hughes, each GPU is made up of four separate GPC (Graphics Processing Clusters), which we can look at each of the streaming multiprocessor (SM) cores within the GPCs separately. Each of the SMs consist 16 or 48KB of L1 cache, 16 or 48KB of shared memory, 32 CUDA Cores , a polymorph engine and 4 texture units.

However, there are still many unanswered questions, such as price, clock speeds, power consumption and thermal issues.

He also mentioned that majority of latest games won’t “pushing” graphics as much as they once did, and most graphic cards that cost $100++ is already “more than enough.

Therefore, those who want to side step the whole PC gaming (and upgrading) bandwagon can buy a games console that will offer them years of gaming experience for the price of a high-performance GPU.

Optimize your Windows System Registry with WinASO Registry Optimizer

noreply@blogger.com (Zakir Hussain) — Tue, 20 Sep 2011 07:04:00 +0000

Registry cleaning is one of numerous methods employed for performing system tune up on Microsoft Windows operating systems. Its purpose is to remove redundant or unwanted entries from the registry. The softwares used to perform this operation are often called as a registry cleaner. By performing registry cleanup, it presents you instant liberation from various computer problems such as removing stubborn useless programs, getting rid of malware and viruses as well as avoiding system crashes and blue screens. Hence, we will be presented with improved, superior and error-free Windows operating system.

WinASO Registry Optimizer is registry cleaner software utility that will allow you to perform all these tasks in only a few clicks. WinASO Registry Optimizer cleans the registry by removing unwanted clutter, repairing registry problems and performing system maintenance as well as optimization. WinASO Registry Optimizer also offer tools for managing your start-up programs, purging histories, optimizing internet connections and system settings as well as maintaining your computer to peak performance. For example, you can clean all traces left by various internet applications or browsers such as Internet Explorer using only with a simple tool provided.

This utility tool provides extra protection and safety with its scanning, diagnostic and repair multiple registry problems, which avoids potential Windows system malfunction or crash. This tool also provides more advanced options such as the advanced scanning algorithm, comprehensive and detailed error reporting, error reports sorting capability with 10 different attributes, powerful registry fixer, privacy cleaner, broken short-cuts cleaner and many more. Even though its trial version will correct only 10 defective or problematic files, executing WinASO Registry Optimizer didn’t exhaust too much system resource at all, especially when doing background scanning. However, in order to get all the benefits that it offers, you’ll have to buy the full version first. It is assured that this tool is 100% safe from malware and scareware.

In my opinion, I would say WinASO Registry Optimizer is one of the best registry cleaner utility software by offering hassle free system maintenance and tune-up. Its well-organized interface has been designed solely for users ranging from novice to experts. It is a best choice to keep your Windows system faster, stable, clean and optimized all the time.

Download WinASO Registry Optimizer

Computer Buying Tips

noreply@blogger.com (Zakir Hussain) — Sat, 17 Sep 2011 06:24:00 +0000

Should You Buy a Mac or a PC?

Deciding whether to buy a Mac or a PC should be based on two main points: your budget and whether the computer is primarily for business or pleasure. Both types of computers are excellent for specific tasks, although if you are planning to go to work and bring your computer with you, you may need to consider what types of computers your coworkers will have to make it easier to swap files or compare notes. Here a few basic tips on how to choose the right computer for you.

Budget

There’s no debate—Macs are far more expensive than PCs. If money is a big issue for you, you’ll want to buy a PC. However, Macs aren’t overpriced. Unlike PCs, each computer is designed for maximum efficiency in both processing speed and ease of use. While PCs frequently crash and are vulnerable to spyware and viruses, Macs resist most viral attacks and operate at a consistently high standard with virtually no technical issues. If you can afford it, a Mac is an excellent investment which will work for you for years.

Business

While Macs have always been the preferred computer of graphic designers and other creative individuals, for most corporate office work, PCs have long been favored over Macs. For this reason, PCs still dominate in most business settings.

Up until a few years ago, the major software designed for business suites, like the Microsoft Suite, was designed chiefly for PCs. However, the popularity of other Apple products such as the iPod and iPad has started to change the way Macs are perceived in the larger corporate world. Most business software now has versions available for both Macs and PCs. Because of their heftier price tag, Macs still have a long way to go in making a dent in the corporate world, although in terms of functionality they perform just as well as a PC.

Graphically, Macs have richer displays and a Linux based operating system that makes them ideal for manipulating complex information such as layered graphical displays. Photoshop was initially designed for the Mac. If you are buying a computer for use in a professionally creative setting, your coworkers will likely also be using Macs.

Programming

Computer programmers are evenly split on whether Macs or PCs make better programming tools. The truth is, it comes down to a matter of personal preference. Macs developed a comprehensive suite of developer tools with their OS 10 which, if used properly, can help you get to the moon. PCs have always been oriented toward programming; in fact, the DOS/Windows interface was developed mainly as a way to stay competitive with the user friendly Mac interface. However, many programmers have complained that Macs are slower than PCs when it comes down to executing large amounts of freshly programmed code.

Personal Use

If you enjoy playing video games in your spare time, buying a PC is probably the best choice. This is partly because PCs are easier to hook up to auxiliary equipment like television sets or other devices. Although USB ports are evenly distributed between Macs and PC, the higher data transfer portals of a Mac do not always adapt easily to most conventional televisions, making it difficult to quickly relay information between the two devices, whereas the higher data transfer portals of a PC are usually very adaptable to auxiliary devices.

If, on the other hand, you prefer to design or develop creative projects in your personal time, Macs are a much better choice. Because Apple has invested so much time in making the user interface incredibly easy to use, spending time creating music or drawing or editing movies becomes less about the computer and more about the activity; you forget you are using a computer, and can instead focus on the act of creation. PCs have a more rigid approach; it’s hard to forget that you’re on a computer.

Cloud Computing and the Future of Virtualization

Of course, with the tech community excited about the potential of cloud computing, computer memory is going to become less of an issue, with flexibility, mobility, and processing speed becoming increasingly important when making purchasing decisions. Mac’s suite of mobile devices are far better adapted to shifting between different geographical areas while also offering enough functionality to make them viable business tools. However, for now you should buy the computer that best suits your needs, and plan on the inevitable: no matter what you buy now, in a few years it will be completely outdated anyway!

Security Tips

noreply@blogger.com (Zakir Hussain) — Sat, 17 Sep 2011 06:24:00 +0000

How to Protect Your Computer From Viruses

With millions of computer users browsing the web at any given time, there are plenty of targets for malicious coders. While computer experts don’t always know why coders choose to build harmful computer programs, the fact is that it happens all the time. Computer viruses can steal personal information, interfere with normal operations, attract spam and even shut down your computer’s hard drive. Protecting your computer is critical for browsing success.

Start With the Basics

Most computer systems come with security features already in place. For example, the Windows operating system is packaged with Microsoft Windows Security Center. When you first open, boot up and register a new computer, you should make sure that this program is functioning. It will give basic protection against spyware, viruses and malware. In addition, a basic firewall is built into this program, providing additional protection and stops for potentially harmful programs. Upon activation, don’t be surprised if your security system needs immediate updating. Software that protects your computer needs regular and consistent updating to stay useful. Viruses are constantly being generated and the several-month lag between when your computer was made and when you first started using it can mean that the database the security system is loaded with is severely out-of-date.

Upgrade to Meet Your Needs

Many people operate computers for a long time with only basic protection in place. However, heavy computer users or those who have risky browsing habits can sometimes benefit from upgrading their virus, spyware and malware protection, as well as using a fuller-featured firewall; this is especially important if you use a networked computer system. Basic or free virus protection will still scan and update for viruses. Paid programs, however, offer more features, including ease-of-use and convenience features. The most important thing is to verify the publisher and make sure you are getting what is promised. Most well-known virus protection programs, such as AVG and Norton Security, have reviews available to help you make your choice.

Learn About Spyware Risks

Spyware creates risks that many computer users are not aware of. If you are only protecting against viruses, you could be leaving your computer open to damage. Most people are familiar with spyware that initiates and attracts annoying ad programs. Spyware, however, can be much more malicious as well. Your shopping habits can be tracked by spyware. While not exactly harmful, some people consider this a breach of privacy. The worst spyware programs interfere with normal operations and can even track what you type, sending personal information to people who want to steal your identity. Some spyware redirects your browser to different web addresses, increasing your risks of virus infection and fraud.

How Viruses Work

The main difference between spyware and viruses is how they are spread. A virus reproduces itself and attaches to any document that the computer sends, while spyware can be stored as a cookie or tracking code. A virus is most often found traveling with a piece of computer software, such as a document, picture or piece of music. When dealing with email, it is necessary to open an attachment to become infected, indicating that, in most cases, the computer user must somehow invite the malicious software to replicate on their system. Of course, most people have no idea it is there or what is happening. Some of the sneakiest and most harmful viruses actually masquerade as virus protection software, making them extremely hard to detect. Because of this, it’s crucial to be familiar with your particular virus protection program and know what it looks like and what the normal scripts and prompts are during operation. Viruses do some of the same things that spyware does; they just accomplish it differently. An active virus can steal personal information, generate ads or shut down your system, including the very virus protection programs that can fix the issue.

Take Steps For Protection

Like anything, the best way to protect against viruses is to be educated. Become familiar with what malicious software may look like. If you get an email or are asked to download a file that you don’t recognize or looks suspicious, do your homework. Research virus protection, spyware, malware and firewall programs and use them to their fullest capacity. Set the software to update and scan automatically to make sure that the system is constantly monitored. In addition, regularly check on the databases published by various virus protection services; many will provide lists of symptoms and risks, as well as the standard way the file gains access for no cost to the public.

Computer Tips & Tricks

noreply@blogger.com (Zakir Hussain) — Sat, 17 Sep 2011 06:23:00 +0000

How to Improve Your Computer’s Performance

Tips for Speeding Up Your PC

Few things are as frustrating as dealing with a slow, sluggish computer. When a computer is brand new, it works wonderfully well. Over time, though, its performance can slowly begin to worsen. This happens for a number of reasons, but the biggest culprits are things like spyware, adware and other computer threats that are unwittingly downloaded along with other content while online. You don’t have to download thousands of MP3s, movies or other items to experience these problems, either – nobody is immune to them. Instead of accepting the situation, there are plenty of techniques and strategies that you can use to make it better – a few of the best ones are outlined below.

Strategy #1: Clean Your Computer’s Windows Registry

The biggest cause of slow, sluggish PC performance is errors and problems within its Windows registry. Adware, spyware and other threats usually target the registry, damaging or misplacing important files within it. When it comes to PC cleaning, a daily Windows registry cleaning should be at the top of your list of priorities. However, this should never be done manually – there are too many opportunities for major errors that could seriously damage your PC’s operating system. Instead, invest in a high-quality Windows registry cleanup program and configure it to run once per day – you won’t believe the difference that it makes.

Strategy #2: Remove Unneeded Files

Every time you log on to the Internet or otherwise use your computer, temporary files are generated. They are usually only needed once; however, they don’t disappear on their own. Instead, they accumulate over time until they are cluttering up your computer’s file system and affecting its performance. While it’s possible to remove these files one-by-one, it’s much easier and quicker to use a PC cleaning tool that’s designed for the purpose. Try to do so about one time per week to keep your computer humming along with ease.

Strategy #3: Remove Unneeded Programs

Like many people, you probably download and try out many different programs each month. How many of them do you actually end up using on a regular basis? Chances are, not very many of them. By getting into the habit of uninstalling unused and unneeded programs, you can keep your computer’s file system a lot less cluttered. In turn, your PC’s performance will improve dramatically. You can optimize your computer in this way by using its Add/Remove Programs feature. Its location varies by operating system, but you should be able to find it somewhere in the Control Panel.

Strategy #4: Empty the Recycle Bin

When you click “delete” on a file or a program, it doesn’t go away for good – not immediately, anyway. Instead, it sits in a kind of purgatory in your computer’s Recycle Bin. As things pile up in the Recycle Bin, your computer can start exhibiting some very annoying problems. If sluggish startups and frequent crashes are occurring with increasing frequency – and your computer’s recycle bin is very full – go ahead and empty it. From then on, get into the habit of doing so about one time per week. This small but important strategy can make a huge difference.

Strategy #5: Perform a Disk Defragmentation

Windows isn’t very efficient when it comes to storing files. It actually splits them up, depositing them into whatever spaces are available. The more spaced apart the pieces of a file are, the harder your computer has to work to make them run. The Windows disk defragmentation system tune-up utility works to piece all of those files back together again. The process is a long one, though, and only needs to be done about four times per year. Set it up to run automatically once every three months. By doing so, you’ll be able to keep your computer running in tiptop shape.

When it comes to keeping your computer running optimally, small but regular maintenance is the best way to go. Protecting your PC only does so much; even the most careful Internet users in the world unintentionally download malicious software from time to time. By using basic system tune-up tools, cleaning your computer’s Windows registry regularly, performing regular file-cleaning maintenance and otherwise optimizing your PC, you should be able to keep it in like-new condition for a lot longer. Even if your computer has been performing slowly for some time, beginning this regimen is sure to produce results. In the end, you’ll be able to enjoy a computer that flies along – instead of one that spins its wheels.

Congo CCHF) virus – Know the Treatment and How to prevent and control

noreply@blogger.com (Zakir Hussain) — Fri, 16 Sep 2011 05:26:00 +0000

Congo CCHF - virus – Know the Treatment and
How to prevent and control spread of Congo or CCHF Virus,Infection

What is a viral hemorrhagic fever?
A viral hemorrhagic fever is a viral disease, which has a tendency to disrupt
the clotting of the blood, so that patients may develop uncontrolled bleeding.
Usually fever, body aches, and other flu-like symptoms also are seen.

Many common diseases can resemble viral hemorrhagic fever, but the term is
reserved for a particular group of diseases associated with a high death
(fatality) rate.

In addition to CCHF they include Lassa fever, Rift Valley
fever, Alkhumra, Omsk hemorrhagic fever, Kyasanur forest disease,
Argentine, Bolivian, Brazilian, and Venezuelan hemorrhagic fevers (caused
by Junin, Machupo, Sabia, and Guanarito viruses, respectively), and
Marburg and Ebola hemorrhagic fevers.

The National Institute of Virology (NIV) has confirmed the positive testing of Crimean-Congo Haemorrhagic Fever (CCHF) virus, identified for the first time in India, which has claimed three lives in Gujarat.

The geographic range of CCHF virus is the most extensive among the tickborne viruses that affect human health, and the second most widespread of all medically important arboviruses, after dengue viruses

CCHF has become one of the most geographically widely distributed tick-borne diseases in the world; the disease, or the presence of the virus, has been reported from at least 31 countries in Africa, Asia, southeast Europe, and the Middle East.

Where does the CCHF virus come from?
A: The virus is transmitted mainly by Hyalomma ticks, adults of which have dis-
tinctive brown and white bands on their legs.
The virus can remain in the ticks for long periods, and even pass through the eggs to infect the next generation of ticks.

Immature Hyalomma ticks (larvae and nymphs) feed on ground-frequenting
(or ground-feeding) birds (guinea fowl, partridges, rooks) and small mammals
up to the size of hares.
Adult Hyalomma ticks feed on livestock such as cattle,sheep, and goats, as well as on wild animals such as antelope, wild boar, and ostriches.

Animals bitten by infected ticks do not develop the disease, but can circulate
the virus in their blood for a few days, up to 1 week, and thereafter become
immune to further infection.
Non infected ticks become infected if they feed on the animals during the short period when virus is in circulation, thus ensuring that the virus is perpetuated.

The Congo virus, which surfaced in Ahmedabad, killed three persons including a doctor and nurse who treated the first victim - a woman from Kolat village in Sanand taluka of the district.

The mortality rate from CCHF is approximately 30%, with death occurring in the second week of illness.
In those patients who recover, improvement generally begins on the ninth or tenth day after the onset of illness.

Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever (CCHF) is a viral haemorrhagic fever of the Nairovirus group.

The disease was first described in the Crimea in 1944 and given the name Crimean haemorrhagic fever.
In 1969 it was recognized that the pathogen causing Crimean haemorrhagic fever was the same as that responsible for an illness identified in 1956 in the Congo and linkage of the 2 place names resulted in the current name for the disease and the virus. CCHF is a severe disease in humans, with a high mortality rate.

The virus which causes CCHF is a Nairovirus, a group of related viruses forming one of the five genera in the Bunyaviridae family of viruses.
All of the 32 members of the Nairovirus genus are transmitted by argasid or ixodid ticks, but only three have been implicated as causes of human disease:

During the summers of 1944 and 1945 over 200 cases of an acute, hemorrhagic, febrile illness occurred in Soviet troops rescuing the harvest following the ethnic cleansing of the Crimean Tatars.
Soviet scientists first identified the disease they called Crimean hemorrhagic fever in 1944 and established its viral etiology by passage of the virus through human "volunteers"

CCHF or Congo reservoirs and vectors –
A reservoir is a place or a zone where a supply is kept in store.
Reservoir refers to a carrier of a virus or parasite for which they are not pathogenic.
Pathogenic means Capable of causing disease or Originating or producing disease.

Vector means any agent (person or animal or microorganism) that carries and transmits a disease; "mosquitos are vectors of malaria and yellow fever"

1.
The CCHF virus may infect a wide range of domestic and wild animals. Many birds are resistant to infection, but ostriches are susceptible and may show a high prevalence of infection in endemic areas. Animals become infected with CCHF from the bite of infected ticks.

2.
A number of tick genera are capable of becoming infected with CCHF virus, but the most efficient and common vectors for CCHF appear to be members of the Hyalomma genus.

3.
The most important source for acquisition of the virus by ticks is believed to be infected small vertebrates on which immature Hyalomma ticks feed.
Once infected, the tick remains infected through its developmental stages, and the mature tick may transmit the infection to large vertebrates, such as livestock. Domestic ruminant animals, such as cattle, sheep and goats, are viraemic (virus circulating in the bloodstream) for around one week after becoming infected.

How the Humans get infected by Congo or CCHF virus?
Humans who become infected with CCHF acquire the virus from direct contact with blood or other infected tissues from livestock during this time, or they may become infected from a tick bite.
The majority of cases have occurred in those involved with the livestock industry, such as agricultural workers, slaughterhouse workers and veterinarians.
The virus is transmitted to humans by the bite of Ixodid tick (mostly of the Hyalomma genus) or by contact with blood or tissues from human patients or infected livestock

The length of the incubation period for the illness appears to depend on the mode of acquisition of the virus.
Following infection via tick bite, the incubation period is usually one to three days, with a maximum of nine days.
The incubation period following contact with infected blood or tissues is usually five to six days, with a documented maximum of 13 days.

What are symptoms of Congo once it is acquired by Human?
Onset of symptoms is sudden, with fever, myalgia (aching muscles), dizziness, neck pain and stiffness, backache, headache, sore eyes and photophobia (sensitivity to light).

There may be nausea, vomiting and sore throat early on, which may be accompanied by diarrhoea and generalized abdominal pain.

Over the next few days, the patient may experience sharp mood swings, and may become confused and aggressive.

After two to four days, the agitation may be replaced by sleepiness, depression and lassitude, and the abdominal pain may localize to the right upper quadrant, with detectable hepatomegaly (liver enlargement).

Other clinical signs which emerge include tachycardia (fast heart rate), lymphadenopathy (enlarged lymph nodes), and a petechial rash (a rash caused by bleeding into the skin), both on internal mucosal surfaces, such as in the mouth and throat, and on the skin.

The petechiae may give way to ecchymoses (like a petechial rash, but covering larger areas) and other haemorrhagic phenomena such as melaena (bleeding from the upper bowel, passed as altered blood in the faeces), haematuria (blood in the urine), epistaxis (nosebleeds) and bleeding from the gums.

There is usually evidence of hepatitis. The severely ill may develop hepatorenal (i.e., liver and kidney) and pulmonary failure after the fifth day of illness.

What is the procedure to Diagnosis of CCHF or Congo Virus?
Diagnosis of suspected CCHF is performed in specially-equipped, high biosafety level laboratories. IgG and IgM antibodies may be detected in serum by enzyme-linked immunoassay (the "ELISA" or "EIA" methods) from about day six of illness. IgM remains detectable for up to four months, and IgG levels decline but remain detectable for up to five years.

Patients with fatal disease do not usually develop a measurable antibody response and in these individuals, as well as in patients in the first few days of illness, diagnosis is achieved by virus detection in blood or tissue samples.

There are several methods for doing this.
The virus may be isolated from blood or tissue specimens in the first five days of illness, and grown in cell culture.
Viral antigens may sometimes be shown in tissue samples using immunofluorescence or EIA.
More recently, the polymerase chain reaction (PCR), a molecular method for detecting the viral genome, has been successfully applied in diagnosis.

Treatment for Congo or CCHF –

General supportive therapy is the mainstay of patient management in CCHF. Intensive monitoring to guide volume and blood component replacement is required.
The antiviral drug ribavirin has been used in treatment of established CCHF infection with apparent benefit.
Both oral and intravenous formulations seem to be effective.
The value of immune plasma from recovered patients for therapeutic purposes has not been demonstrated, although it has been employed on several occasions.

Ribavirin aerosol is antiviral drug that could be also used in viral hemorrhagic fever syndromes. Besides Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF), it is used in Lassa fever

Make Good Health

noreply@blogger.com (Zakir Hussain) — Thu, 15 Sep 2011 19:34:00 +0000

How to Understand Food Labels

Food labels were regulated in 1994. Earlier then, food companies could print their products’ nutritionary info basically anyplace they required to (and often in really small print).
The Food and Drug Administration necessary companies to format the information in a structured mode and to accept assistive information on the label -- in a set size and organised manner.
These regulations involved both the factors and nutritional information to be provided along with a food label of a standard size and shape (a rectangle) tagged “Nutrition Facts”. In this box, you will find nutritionary info listed in order of importance.
In 1994, the FDA and U.S. Department of Farming essential that:
* labels allow for information on how the food fits into an overall daily diet
* labels will take on information on the amount per serving of saturated fat, cholesterol, dietary fiber, and different foods of health worry to today's consumers
* terms such as light," "fat-free," and "low-calorie" meet government definitions * be consistent across product lines to make comparison shopping lighter
* showed in common measures
* reflect amounts people really eat (Good Reading)
Serving Up Sizes
Serving size is the first item listed on a nutrition tag. Serving sizes are regular, recommended snack or meal size portions. Depending on the type of food, the serving size may be showed by cup measure or number, such as one cup of cereal or one slice of bread. Some solid foods, like salad dressing, can be represented by small appraises like tablespoons. This information is followed by the metric amount (e.g., grams) the serving contains. Serving size is the nearly essential part of the food label. It is integral to utilising the additional information on the label to lose weight. Whether you count calories, fat grams, or carbs, it is unattainable to accurately track them without knowing and evaluating serving sizes.

The Dry-Skin Workbook

noreply@blogger.com (Zakir Hussain) — Thu, 15 Sep 2011 19:32:00 +0000

Got A Pencil? Take Our Quiz, Then Create Your Own Personal Repair Plan. Payoff: You’ll Look Younger By Spring!

No matter what your skin type, winter dryness doesn't discriminate: It can occur anywhere on the body, from the top of your head to the soles of your feet. The result of cold temperatures, whipping winds, and indoor heating, "winter dryness is also one of the main reasons that skin often looks older than its years," says Katie Rodan, M.D., adjunct clinical associate professor of dermatology at Stanford University School of Medicine. But you don't have to spend another season letting dryness and inflammation age you. "Skin that's well moisturized always looks healthier and younger," says Dr. Rodan. How exactly do you care for the skin you're in? Take our quiz. Then tally your score and get tailored-to-you advice on keeping your birthday suit healthy, flake free—and forever young.

Quiz: Winter-Skin Checkup

How dry are you, really? Diagnose your level—then learn how to deal with it.

1. In what part of the country do you live?
a. Southwest/South
b. Midwest
c. Northeast/Northwest

How old are you?
a. Under 30
b. 30 to 45
c. Over 45
Do the following test: Place a piece of clear tape on the back of your hand. Leave it there for several seconds, then gently pull it off. Your tape is:
a. Still clear
b. Flaky in spots
c. Totally clouded by flakes
Are you ever self-conscious about your dry skin? For example, do you notice flakes on your legs as you sit in a meeting?
a. Never
b. Occasionally
c. Often
How often are you in the itch-scratch cycle? (You scratch an itch, then your skin gets inflamed and begs to be scratched more.)
a. Never
b. Rarely
c. Frequently, especially in winter
Wash your face and leave it bare—no moisturizer, sunscreen, makeup, etc. Ten minutes later, your skin:
a. Is well hydrated (it looks shiny)
b. Feels tight, slightly dry
c. Feels very dry, and it's flaking or cracking
You apply foundation in the morning. By lunchtime, it:
a. Appears to be almost gone
b. Still looks pretty smooth in most places
c. Has started to cake, especially around your face's dry patches and wrinkles
In photos, your face appears shiny:
a. Frequently
b. Sometimes
c. Never
Your skin is red and itchy:
a. Never
b. Sometimes
c. Usually
After a plane trip, your skin:
a. Looks and feels the same as when you boarded
b. Is a little dry, but looks OK
c. Looks and feels (painfully) parched, with noticeable dry patches or chapping

SCORING
Mostly A's
Your skin is almost baby fresh.
Diagnosis: Your skin is super-healthy...now try to maintain that status quo.

Mostly B's
You're middle-of-the-road dry.
Diagnosis: Your skin is definitely thirsty...but you have a secret weapon.

Mostly C's
You're as dry as the Sahara Desert .
Diagnosis: Your skin may be unable to retain water.

Summer Skin Hazards

noreply@blogger.com (Zakir Hussain) — Thu, 15 Sep 2011 19:31:00 +0000

Sunburn

Red and painful skin. Blisters. Peeling. Sunburn is uncomfortable, to be sure. But it can also cause premature aging and lead to skin cancer.

Your best protection against sunburn is to limit the time your skin is exposed to the sun. Here are some ways to protect your skin from sun damage:

Apply sunscreen generously to all exposed areas of skin about 30 minutes before you go outside. Look for a sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30.
Reapply sunscreen every two hours while you’re in the sun, or after swimming or sweating.
Wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses.
Using a lip balm with an SPF 30 or higher.
Limit your sun exposure between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when the sun’s rays are the strongest.

If you do get a sunburn, a cool shower or bath and a moisturizer or an over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream may help relieve the discomfort.

Bug Bites

From mosquitoes to chiggers, summer pests can cause itching, swelling, and pain. Here are some ways to keep insects from ruining your outdoor fun:

Avoid brushy areas and high grass. If you must go into these areas, wear long pants and sleeves and tuck your pant legs into your socks.
Avoid wearing bright colors and perfume or other strong scents when you go outside.
Use insect repellent when you’re in wooded or brushy areas. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), those with DEET or picaridin as active ingredients typically provide protection that lasts longer than others. Studies have also found that oil of lemon eucalyptus provides protection similar to products with low concentrations of DEET.
Make it a habit to check for ticks after you’ve been outdoors.

If you do get bitten, prompt treatment will help ease discomfort. A cold compress or ice pack will help reduce the swelling.

For help with itchy bites, use calamine lotion, an over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream, or antihistamine

Poisonous Plants

Step in the wrong patch of greenery this summer and you’ll pay the price. Whether the culprit is poison ivy, poison oak, or poison sumac, the symptoms are the same: itchy skin, a red rash, and blisters. The reaction is caused when oil from these plants gets onto your skin.
The best way to prevent a rash is to learn what these plants look like and avoid them. If you do come in contact with a poisonous plant, wash your skin in cool water right away. Be sure to scrub under your fingernails so you won’t spread the oil to other parts of your body. And wash your clothes in hot water to remove the oil.
When preventive measures haven’t worked, use these tips to find relief from the itch of poisonous plants:

Apply cool compresses to your skin.
Take a lukewarm bath using an oatmeal bath product or aluminum acetate.
Use calamine lotion, an over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream, or antihistamine.

Call your doctor if you have a fever, the rash looks infected, the rash is severe, or if the rash is on your lips, eyes, face, or genital area.

Summer Cuts and Scrapes

Cuts and scrapes can happen year-round. But they are more likely during the summer, when you’re enjoying outdoor activities.
Follow these tips to treat minor cuts or abrasions:

Use cool, running water and soap to clean a minor cut or scrape.
To stop a cut from bleeding, use a clean cloth or tissue to apply firm pressure to the cut. You may need to apply pressure for up to 20 minutes to get the bleeding to stop.
If your cut is in an area that won’t get dirty, you may decide to leave it uncovered. If your cut is on a place that requires a bandage, be sure to change the bandage every day.
As your cut is healing, it will form a scab. Be sure not to pick at it. The scab will fall off on its own when the wound has healed.

See your doctor if the edges of the wound don’t close, the cut is inflamed or tender, the cut won’t stop bleeding, the cut looks infected, or if you have a fever.
Major skin wounds that are deep, bleed heavily, or have objects deeply embedded in them need medical attention.

10 Winter Skin Care Tips

noreply@blogger.com (Zakir Hussain) — Thu, 15 Sep 2011 19:28:00 +0000

For many people, the cold clear days of winter bring more than just a rosy glow to the cheeks. They also bring uncomfortable dryness to the skin of the face, hands, and feet. For some people, the problem is worse than just a general tight, dry feeling: They get skin so dry it results in flaking, cracking, even eczema (in which the skin becomes inflamed).

"As soon as you turn the heat on indoors, the skin starts to dry out," Bonnie LaPlante, an esthetician with the Canyon Ranch resort in Lenox, Mass., tells WebMD. "It doesn't matter if you heat your home using oil, wood, or electricity. The skin gets dry."

1. Seek a Specialist

If you go to your local drugstore, you'll be hard put to find a salesperson who can give you good advice. That's why going to an esthetician or dermatologist even once is a good investment. Such a specialist can analyze your skin type, troubleshoot your current skin care regimen, and give you advice on the skin care products you should be using.

But that doesn't mean you'll be stuck buying high-end products. "Inexpensive products work just as well as high-end ones," says David Voron, MD, a dermatologist in Arcadia, Calif. "In fact, the extra price you pay for the expensive stuff is often just for packaging and marketing. What's most important is how your skin responds to the product -- and how you like its feel, not how much money you paid for it."

2. Moisturize More

You may have found a moisturizer that works just fine in spring and summer. But as weather conditions change, so, too, should your skin care routine. Find an "ointment" moisturizer that's oil-based, rather than water-based, as the oil will create a protective layer on the skin that retains more moisture than a cream or lotion. (Hint: Many lotions labeled as "night creams" are oil-based.)

But choose your oils with care because not all oils are appropriate for the face. Instead, look for "nonclogging" oils, like avocado oil, mineral oil, primrose oil, or almond oil. Shea oil -- or butter -- is controversial, because it can clog facial pores. And vegetable shortening, LaPlante says, is a really bad idea. "It would just sit on the skin," she says. "And it would be really greasy."

You can also look for lotions containing "humectants," a class of substances (including glycerine, sorbitol, and alpha-hydroxy acids) that attract moisture to your skin.

3. Slather on the Sunscreen

No, sunscreen isn't just for summertime. Winter sun -- combined with snow glare -- can still damage your skin. Try applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen to your face and your hands (if they're exposed) about 30 minutes before going outside. Reapply frequently if you stay outside a long time.

4. Give Your Hands a Hand

The skin on your hands is thinner than on most parts of the body and has fewer oil glands. That means it's harder to keep your hands moist, especially in cold, dry weather. This can lead to itchiness and cracking. Wear gloves when you go outside; if you need to wear wool to keep your hands warm, slip on a thin cotton glove first, to avoid any irritation the wool might cause.

5. Avoid Wet Gloves and Socks

Wet socks and gloves can irritate your skin and cause itching, cracking, sores, or even a flare-up of eczema.

6. Hook Up the Humidifier

Central heating systems (as well as space heaters) blast hot dry air throughout our homes and offices. Humidifiers get more moisture in the air, which helps prevent your skin from drying out. Place several small humidifiers throughout your home; they help disperse the moisture more evenly.

7. Hydrate for Your Health, Not for Your Skin

If you've heard it once, you've heard it a thousand times: Drinking water helps your skin stay young looking. In fact, it's a myth. Water is good for your overall health and "the skin of someone who is severely dehydrated will benefit from fluids. But the average person's skin does not reflect the amount of water being drunk," Kenneth Bielinski, MD, a dermatologist in Oak Lawn, Ill., tells WebMD "It's a very common misconception."
LaPlante agrees. "I see clients at the spa who drink their 10 to 12 glasses of water a day and still have superdry skin. It just doesn't do that much."

8. Grease Up Your Feet

Yes, those minty foot lotions are lovely in the hot summer months, but during the winter, your feet need stronger stuff. Try finding lotions that contain petroleum jelly or glycerine instead. And use exfoliants to get the dead skin off periodically; that helps any moisturizers you use to sink in faster and deeper.

9. Pace the Peels

If your facial skin is uncomfortably dry, avoid using harsh peels, masks, and alcohol-based toners or astringents, all of which can strip vital oil from your skin. Instead, find a cleansing milk or mild foaming cleanser, a toner with no alcohol, and masks that are "deeply hydrating," rather than clay-based, which tends to draw moisture out of the face. And use them a little less often.

10. Ban Superhot Baths

Sure, soaking in a burning-hot bath feels great after frolicking out in the cold. But the intense heat of a hot shower or bath actually breaks down the lipid barriers in the skin, which can lead to a loss of moisture. "You're better off with just warm water," LaPlante advises, "and staying in the water a shorter amount of time."
A lukewarm bath with oatmeal or baking soda, can help relieve skin that is so dry it has become itchy, Bielinski notes. So, too, can periodically reapplying your moisturizer. If those techniques don't work, go see a dermatologist. "You may need a prescription lotion to combat the dry skin," Bielinski says. "Or you may have a condition that isn't simply dry skin and that requires different treatment."

Dengue Fever Treatment & Management

noreply@blogger.com (Zakir Hussain) — Wed, 14 Sep 2011 18:45:00 +0000

Medical Care

Dengue fever is usually a self-limited illness, and only supportive care is required. Acetaminophen may be used to treat patients with symptomatic fever. Aspirin, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and corticosteroids should be avoided.
Patients with known or suspected dengue fever should have their platelet count and hematocrit measured daily from the third day of illness until 1-2 days after defervescence. Patients with a rising hematocrit level or falling platelet count should have intravascular volume deficits replaced. Patients who improve can continue to be monitored in an outpatient setting. Patients who do not improve should be admitted to the hospital for continued hydration.
Patients who develop signs of dengue hemorrhagic fever warrant closer observation. Patients who develop signs of dehydration, such as tachycardia, prolonged capillary refill time, cool or mottled skin, diminished pulse amplitude, altered mental status, decreased urine output, rise in hematocrit levels, narrowed pulse pressure, or hypotension, require admission for intravenous fluid administration.
Successful management of severe dengue requires careful attention to fluid management and proactive treatment of hemorrhage. Intravascular volume deficits should be corrected with isotonic fluids such as Ringers lactate solution. Boluses of 10-20 mL/kg should be given over 20 minutes and may be repeated. If this fails to correct the deficit, the hematocrit value should be determined, and, if it is rising, limited clinical information suggests that a plasma expander may be administered. Starch, dextran 40, or albumin 5% at a dose of 10-20 mL/kg may be used. One recent study has suggested that starch may be preferable because of hypersensitivity reactions to dextran.^[35]If the patient does not improve after this, blood loss should be considered. Patients with internal or gastrointestinal bleeding may require transfusion. Patients with coagulopathy may require fresh frozen plasma.
After patients with dehydration are stabilized, they usually require intravenous fluids for no more than 24-48 hours. Intravenous fluids should be stopped when the hematocrit level falls below 40% and adequate intravascular volume is present. At this time, patients reabsorb extravasated fluid and are at risk for volume overload if intravenous fluids are continued. Do not interpret a falling hematocrit value in a clinically improving patient as a sign of internal bleeding.
Platelet and fresh frozen plasma transfusions may be required to control severe bleeding. A recent case report demonstrated good improvement following intravenous anti-D globulin administration in two patients. The authors proposed that, similarly to nondengue forms of immune thrombocytopenic purpura, intravenous anti-D produces Fcγ receptor blockade to raise platelet counts.
Patients who are resuscitated from shock rapidly recover. Patients with dengue hemorrhagic fever or dengue shock syndrome may be discharged from the hospital when they meet the following criteria:
- Afebrile for 24 hours without antipyretics
- Good appetite, clinically improved condition
- Adequate urine output
- Stable hematocrit level
- At least 48 hours since recovery from shock
- Absence of respiratory distress
- Platelet count greater than 50,000 cells/μL
Consultations
- Consultation with an infectious diseases specialist may be helpful in guiding decisions regarding diagnosis and treatment.
- Consultation with a critical care medicine specialist may be helpful when treating patients with dengue hemorrhagic fever or dengue shock syndrome and severe hemorrhagic manifestations or shock.
  
  Diet
  No specific diet is necessary for patients with dengue fever.
  
  Patients may become dehydrated from fever, lack of oral intake, or vomiting. Patients who are able to tolerate oral fluids should be encouraged to drink oral rehydration solution, fruit juice, or water to prevent dehydration.
  
  Return of appetite after dengue hemorrhagic fever or dengue shock syndrome is a sign of recovery.

Treating the Patient With Severe Dengue Infection

noreply@blogger.com (Zakir Hussain) — Wed, 14 Sep 2011 18:42:00 +0000

Dengue has been called the most important mosquito-transmitted viral disease in terms of morbidity and mortality. Dengue fever is a benign, acute febrile syndrome occurring in tropical regions. In a small proportion of cases, the virus causes increased vascular permeability that leads to a bleeding diathesis or disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) known as dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF). Secondary infection by a different dengue virus serotype has been confirmed as an important risk factor for the development of DHF.
In 20-30% of DHF cases, the patient develops shock, known as the dengue shock syndrome (DSS).
Worldwide, children younger than 15 years make up 90% of DHF cases.^[1]In the Americas, however, DHF occurs in adults and children.
Dengue fever is not contagious through person-to-person contact.

Complications

Complications are rare but may include the following:

Brain damage from prolonged shock or intracranial hemorrhage
Myocarditis
Encephalopathy
Liver failure
Prehospital Care
Initiate supportive therapy as follows:
- Intravenous (IV) crystalloids, as needed to keep systolic blood pressure above 90 mm Hg
- Oxygen, empirically

Secrets to Getting 6 Pack Abs

noreply@blogger.com (Zakir Hussain) — Thu, 08 Sep 2011 07:27:00 +0000

6 Pack Abs

Is there anyone who doesn’t at least wish for them? They seem elusive, don’t they?

Bottom line is if you have em’, you get noticed immediately. Even if you’re a skinny minny. Nut do you spend WAY too much time training your abs directly… pumping away with all kinds of different abs-specific exercises?

Or maybe you are doing too much cardio? Too much slow cardio and not enough high intensity work.

What about nutrition? You can’t over look that.

You just need to follow certain strategies – much like following a road map. Without these strategies your quest for them may be impossible. This interview just might be invaluable to you.

Useful Tips For Controlling Body Weight

noreply@blogger.com (Zakir Hussain) — Thu, 08 Sep 2011 07:24:00 +0000

The maintenance of body weight is very important as far as the health fitness is concerned. People who have got abnormal weight are susceptible to diseases very easily. The reason for abnormal body weight is life style. In today’s life style men can perform works with out much exertion and for conveyance they can rely on their own vehicles and other alternatives. They have no need to walk to reach their destinations. To make things available just a phone call is sufficient. Then the only thing they have to do is eat and sit simply. This is the reason for abnormal weight in human beings. Over weight is the cause of numerous diseases like Diabetics and Hypertension. If men become prey to these diseases once they cannot escape from their hands till the last minute of their life. They can continue living by taking medicines regularly. The doctors also instruct them to control the diet and body weight. Hence if people can control their body weight by controlling their diet in advance they can avoid the intake of medicines and thereby they can save financially also.

Men can control their body weight by means of exercises, daily walk and diet control. By controlling weight they can always feel as rejuvenated and free of various health problems. By reducing body weight, the excess fat content in the body will be removed considerably. This will enable people to bring cholesterol under desirable level. Cholesterol is the killer factor for causing heart blocks and thereby cardiac arrest. Hence this is a favorable factor for avoiding various heart problems. If the cholesterol level can be brought under control the blood pressure also can be minimized ideally. In this way by reducing excess body weight, all major diseases can be kept away and this will enable men to lead a very comfortable life.

Holistic Hair Loss Remedies Worth a Shot Before Trying a Transplant

noreply@blogger.com (Zakir Hussain) — Thu, 08 Sep 2011 07:23:00 +0000

As far as human health is concerned, going bald doesn’t do anything except increase the chances of getting sun burned. But hair loss is unfortunately a highly stigmatizing issue for people, especially women. When it comes to human interaction, hair loss is a surefire inhibitor of self-confidence, and even a potential roadblock to personal achievement. There’s a massive market for hair loss treatment that ranges from Rogaine to getting hair roots transplanted from one part of the head to another. These options should be explored if hair loss is affecting your way of life; however, before doing so you should give some free curatives a try.

It’s not everyday that medical advice includes the consumption of caffeinated beverages, but studies show that green tea can lower DHT levels, the hormone primarily responsible for hair loss. Coffee is said to help too, but not by drinking it. Studies show that ground up coffee beans mixed in with shampoo can reduce testosterone-induced follicle growth suppression.

However, not all balding is directly caused by inherent genetic dispositions. Some instances of balding are caused by environmental factors, stress, or bad nutrition. Extreme temperatures, especially when going from one extreme to the next, tend to incite more hair loss than usual. Avoiding extreme temperatures can keep hair in its place.

Stress is also an incredibly common cause of baldness, and efforts to reduce stress should be taken at the first signs of hair loss.

But above all, the biggest thing you can do about your lifestyle that can help reduce hair loss or even reverse it is to get into shape and eat right. Your hair is like any other part of the body – it needs the right combination of vitamins and nutrients to be healthy

Additional homemade remedies include utilizing oils, extracts, and good old fashioned produce that humans have been using for thousands of years to reverse balding. Carrier oils like jojoba and grape seed mixed with traditional oils like those of thyme, rosemary, and lavender have been applied to the scalps of balding people for centuries. The Ancient Greeks were convinced that onions had a hand in reversing baldness and would pack their scalps with slivers of onions.

Whether or not you want your hair, or what’s left of it, smelling like onions in the effort to keep the hair you have is up to you. But if you’ve become increasingly serious about surgical solutions to hair loss, you should consider these cheaper alternatives first. You never know what may sprout as a result of your toil.

Common Excuses For Being Unhealthy

noreply@blogger.com (Zakir Hussain) — Thu, 08 Sep 2011 07:22:00 +0000

We all live with excuses of a wide variety every day of our lives. It’s all a part of a rationalization of why we do, or don’t do, something. The power of rationalization can’t be underscored enough and it’s being able to recognizing when we’re doing it that we can begin to take steps not to utilize it.

Our health is one of the biggest problems that often falls victim to our unsurpassed ability to make excuses to ourselves. This is all a part of the science of how we think and some of the most common excuses that just don’t cut it include:

It’s Too Hot/It’s Too Cold

Every winter, we tell ourselves that when summer rolls around we’re really going to get ourselves into shape. When summer arrives, we complain that it’s too hot and that we’ll make doubly sure that, when it cools down, we’ll put in some effort. This is an excuse that just doesn’t cut it. We could always work out in-doors or join a gym. There are far too many options for this argument to hold up.

I Have Bad Genes

We’ve seen incredible breakthroughs in medical science and every year we push further and further towards understanding how our bodies work. From Pituitary Surgery to nanotechnology, we’re constantly pushing towards new and more innovative approaches to the field of medicine. With this knowledge we’ve come to understand that, in some part, our genes determine the way we look but the excuse, I’m obese because it’s in my genes is a terrible excuse. This is a common excuse that people use. You genes may have something to do with a person having a harder time loosing weight but, under no circumstances, does it explain why a person gets to be five hundred pounds.

I’m Too Tired

This is one of the most excusable, and inexcusable, reasons. We work all day and when we come home, the last thing we want to do is head to the gym. We want to sit on the couch and decompress after a long day. The “I’m too tired” often doesn’t cut it. If you’re chronically tired, it’s because you’re not exercising. This is one of the biggest causes of fatigue. When we’re not active our bodies go into a sort of hibernation mode and won’t expend a lot of energy. It’s through being active that the body releases endorphins that motivate the mind and body. So if you’re feeling tired all the time, you might just need a good workout regiment.

We all rationalize and make excuses from time to time, but it’s important to not let it take control. If any of these things sound familiar, then you should probably analyze why you’re not getting out and getting fit. Examine your habits, good and bad, and see where you could do with some change in your routine.