nice health

know the muscles are there in a human body

noreply@blogger.com (F2P) — Sun, 10 Jul 2016 07:27:00 +0000

yes our body gets its shape from the skeleton that supports it. The bones give the body strength and the muscles which are around the bones is what gives definition to the body, help in movement and store energy. The various muscles which are intertwined with tendons and nerves make the movement possible for the body.

Different organs and parts need various types of muscles and depending upon the nature of requirement, striated or non striated or voluntary or involuntary type of muscles are present there. Since our whole body is a mass of muscles, their volume is indeed huge.

There are more than 639 skeletal muscles in your body. Some sources will say 640 muscles in the human body. On average, your body weight is 40% muscle. Out of the 639/640 muscles, 30 of them are facial muscles, which help you create all those different faces of happiness, surprise, joy, sorrow, sadness, fright, etc. The muscles surrounding your eye are the busiest muscles in your body. Research indicates that you probably blink them more than 100,000 times a day
muscle is to move your body :
Without muscles you couldn't move your skeleton. There would be no way to animate your physical body or even speak your mind. You wouldn't be able to blink, digest your food, breathe, pump your heart or have one for that matter since your heart is a muscle. You couldn't smile, urinate, defecate or sniff with your nose.

Muscles are a type of tissue that is composed of contractile cells or fibers :
The cells or fibers actually contract! And when they contract, they create movement on the bone that they attached to. The really cool thing about muscles tissue is its ability to shorten (contract). Muscle tissue also has the property of irritability, conductivity and elasticity.

Remember, there are three different types of muscle tissue :

Smooth muscle:
This muscle tissue is called involuntary because it is NOT under conscious control. Involuntary means you do not have to think about it. Involuntary muscle tissue is found in the internal organs; namely the digestive tract, respiratory passages, urinary and genital ducts, urinary bladder, gallbladder, walls of the blood vessels. Yep! Your blood vessel walls are also muscle tissue.
Another great reason to exercise and pump the blood.

Striated muscle :
This muscle tissue is found in all skeletal muscles, and movement is under conscious control. It also occurs in the tongue, pharynx, and upper portion of the esoophagus. Voluntary muscles are under conscious control because you would consciously tell them what to do. If you say, "arm, move" it moves!

Cardiac muscle :
This muscle tissue is only found in the heart. The fibers branch and form a continuous network. At certain intervals, there are prominent bands or intercalated disks that cross the fibers. Some fibers are called Purkinje fibers, and they form the impulse-conducting system of the heart.

Muscles work by contracting and relaxing :
Pump your bicep for a second. Make a fist and bring it up to your ear. Notice how your bicep gets bigger when the muscle tightens and shortens. And when you relax your arm, the muscle gets longer and smaller. Muscles do not push, they pull. The tiny muscle fibers work like a sliding glass door on a track. And these tiny muscle fibers get their energy from the food you eat. Without food to feed the muscles, your muscles couldn't make the energy to contract. The reason you can move your arm back and forth is because muscles work in pairs. One is a synergist, the other a antagonist. It's a support thing and so they can pull in opposing directions.

Have you ever heard the term "Move it or Lose it!" This term can be directly applied to a sarcomere.
A sarcomere is portion of a striated muscle fibril. Tiny pieces of your muscle. If you don't move and exercise those muscles by contracting and relaxing them, you will in fact lose 100 sarcomere's a day. YIKES!

In order for a muscle to work, it has to cross a joint. Connecting from one end of a bone to the other without crossing the joint would be pretty much useless because it wouldn't be able to shorten or lengthen with the movement of the joint. So in order to bend your knee, the muscles in your thigh have to cross over to the other side of the knee joint and attach. Then when you tighten the muscle, the knee bends. Cool huh?

The muscles that are voluntary get their signals from the peripheral nervous system, and it's because of this that the skeletal muscles are under conscious or voluntary control. The involuntary muscles (smooth and cardiac muscles) receive their nerve supply from the central nervous system and functions involuntarily without conscious control.

It is possible to hurt a muscle because they can become pulled, hence "pulled muscle." You can actually tear a muscle the same way that a ligament or tendon gets torn or a bone gets broke. And the cool thing is, they can heal themselves with rest and time.

People at a stroke

noreply@blogger.com (F2P) — Sat, 09 Jul 2016 18:14:00 +0000

A stroke is serious - just like a heart attack. A stroke is sometimes called a "brain attack." Most often, stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain stops because it is blocked by a clot. The brain cells in the immediate area begin to die because they stop getting the oxygen and nutrients they need to function.

What causes a stroke?
There are two kinds of stroke. The most common kind of stroke, called ischemic stroke, is caused by a blood clot that blocks or plugs a blood vessel in the brain. The other kind of stroke, called hemorrhagic stroke, is caused by a blood vessel that breaks and bleeds into the brain.

Anyone can have a stroke, but there are some things that increase your risk

Your age

The largest number of people who have strokes are aged over 55, and the risk increases as you get older. This is because our arteries naturally become narrower and harder as we get older.

Your ethnicity

If you are South Asian, black African or black Caribbean you are at a higher risk of stroke than other people in the UK. It isn’t completely understood why this is, but it’s probably connected to the fact that you are more likely to have conditions like high blood pressure or diabetes.

Family history

If a close relative (parent, grandparent, brother or sister) has had a stroke, your risk is likely to be higher.

Genetic conditions

Certain genetic conditions can cause strokes. Sickle cell disease, for example, is a genetic disorder that affects your red blood cells and makes them more likely to block your blood vessels.

None of these factors mean that you will necessarily have a stroke, but it’s important to be aware of them and do what you can about the factors you can change.

What should you do?
Because stroke injures the brain, you may not realize that you are having a stroke. The people around you might not know it either. Your family, friends, or neighbors may think you are confused. You may not be able to call on your own. That's why everyone should know the signs of stroke - and know how to act fast.

Don't wait for the symptoms to improve or worsen. If you believe you are having a stroke - or someone you know is having a stroke - call immediately. Making the decision to call for medical help can make the difference in avoiding a lifelong disability.
Streetsign image with text: Trouble Walking

Causes polio in Africa

noreply@blogger.com (F2P) — Sat, 09 Jul 2016 17:12:00 +0000

Polio (poliomyelitis) is a highly infectious disease caused by a virus. It invades the nervous system and can cause irreversible paralysis in a matter of hours.

Causes Polio
Poliovirus is often transmitted from person-to-person through fecal matter. People living in areas with limited access to running water or flush toilets often get the virus from drinking water contaminated by human waste that contains the virus.

In addition, the virus can be spread by contaminated food or water or direct contact with another infected person. According to the May Clinic, the virus that causes polio is so contagious that anyone living with an infected person will likely become infected themselves. (Mayo Clinic)

Pregnant women, people with weakened immune systems, such as HIV+ people, and young children are the most susceptible to the polio virus. If you have not been vaccinated, you increase your risk of contracting polio by:

    traveling to an area that has had a recent polio outbreak
    taking care of or living with someone infected with polio
    handling a laboratory specimen of the virus
    having your tonsils removed
    extreme stress, which can compromise immune system function

Types of Polio

There are three types of polio infections:

Sub-clinical: Approximately 95 percent of polio cases are sub-clinical, and patients may not experience any symptoms. This form of polio does not affect the central nervous system (the brain and spinal cord).
Non-paralytic: This form, which does affect the central nervous system, produces only mild symptoms and does not result in paralysis.
Paralytic: This is the rarest and most serious form of polio, which produces full or partial paralysis in the patient. There are three types of paralytic polio: spinal polio (affects the spine), bulbar polio (affects the brainstem), and bulbospinal polio (affects the spine and brainstem).

Post-polio syndrome is a complication that can occur after a person has caught and recovered from poliovirus. Symptoms of the syndrome can appear up to 35 years after the polio infection.

Prevent Polio
The best way to prevent polio is to get vaccinated. Children should get polio shots according to the CDC vaccination schedule, shown below.

Rarely, the shots can cause mild or severe allergic reactions, including:

    breathing problems
    high fever
    dizziness
    hives
    swelling of throat
    rapid heart rate

Adults in the United States are not at a high risk for contracting polio. The greatest risk is when traveling to an area where polio is still common. Make sure to get a series of shots before you travel.

Center for Disease Control Vaccination Schedule

Age

2 months     One dose

4 months             One dose

6 to 18 months     One dose

4 to 6 years          Booster dose

The negative effect of cholesterol on the heart

noreply@blogger.com (F2P) — Sat, 09 Jul 2016 11:23:00 +0000

Cholesterol is a fatty substance carried around the body by proteins. When cholesterol and proteins are combined, they are called lipoproteins. There are two

main types of lipoproteins:
Low-density lipoproteins (LDL) is known as the bad type of cholesterol. LDL carry cholesterol from your liver to the cells that need it.
High-density lipoprotein (HDL) is known as the good type of cholesterol. HDL carry cholesterol away from the cells and back to the liver to be broken down.
Too much bad cholesterol (LDL) in your blood can cause fatty material to build up in your artery walls. The risk is particularly high if you have a high level of bad cholesterol and a low level of good cholesterol.
If you need to have your cholesterol measured, it will be in units called millimols per litre of blood (mmol/l). You should aim to have a total cholesterol level under 4mmol/l especially if you are at risk of, or already have, heart and circulatory disease. You should also aim to have your LDL under 2 mmol/l and your HDL above 1 mmol/l.

- High cholesterol can create a bile imbalance, leading to gallstones. According to the National Digestive Disease Information Clearinghouse, more than 80 percent of gallstones are cholesterol stones.

A buildup of plaque in your arteries can also block blood flow to your kidneys and stomach. Intestinal ischemic syndrome is when there’s a blockage in arteries leading to the intestines or bowel. Symptoms include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and bloody stools.

- causes high cholesterol

There is no one single cause for high cholesterol. Many different factors can contribute to high cholesterol such as:
    eating a diet that is high in saturated fat
    smoking
    lack of physical activity
    high alcohol intake, or
    kidney or liver disease.

Having an inherited condition known as familial hypercholesterolaemia (FH) can also cause exceptionally high cholesterol even if you have a healthy lifestyle.

"If you want to see what it looks like in a solidified form, go get yourself a can of Crisco at the grocery store," says Gregory Dehmer, MD, director of the division of cardiology at the Texas A&M College of Medicine. "If you open up a can of Crisco, its this white, lard-like substance."

His Heart Almost Stopped

How cholesterol can clog arteries
Not all cholesterol is created equal. It's a fatty substance, so cholesterol can't dissolve in the blood to be carried to where it's needed in the body. "Your body is mostly water, and fat and water don't mix," says Dr. Dehmer.

So cholesterol is packaged into proteins that can shuttle the fatty stuff around your body. One is high-density lipoprotein (HDL, or good cholesterol) and another is low-density lipoprotein (LDL, or bad cholesterol).

What's the difference? LDL can stick to the smooth lining of the blood vessels, where it is absorbed. HDL appears to do the opposite—it actually mops up excess cholesterol and removes it from the blood vessels.

The amount and type of cholesterol in your blood are determined by genetics, age, diet, and exercise. When you eat a diet that's rich in saturated and trans fats, or dietary cholesterol (which is found in animal products such as eggs, milk, and meat), LDL cholesterol levels go up.

"The problem is that many individuals—and probably including myself—eat a diet that is very excessive in all the wrong kind of fats, of which we are talking about animal fats and dairy fats, and therefore we get our cholesterol up too high," says Dr. Dehmer.

But when you exercise, HDL cholesterol goes up—and that's a good thing. "The bottom line is that there are some people out there who have fairly high levels of HDL cholesterol," says Stephen Nicholls, MBBS, PhD, a research cardiologist at the Cleveland Clinic. "That may drive their total cholesterol to look higher than it actually is in terms of how bad that level is."

How cholesterol affects the heart
If LDL cholesterol is too high, some is absorbed into the artery walls, where it acts like an irritant that triggers inflammation in the body. White blood cells crawl into the artery wall and start "gobbling up fatty particles" in a fruitless effort to heal the damage, says Dr. Dehmer.

The end result is big, fatty deposits in the blood vessels. This causes the vessels to become stiff, narrow, and less responsive to triggers to expand and constrict, a process that ensures a steady flow of life-giving oxygen to the body's tissues. (While you may think of blood vessels as akin to the plumbing in your house, they're more dynamic; they constantly adapt to meet the body's needs.)

open quoteIf you want to see what cholesterol looks like, go get yourself a can of Crisco at the grocery store.close quote
This process can happen all over your body. If the fatty buildup is in the blood vessels in the legs (a condition known as peripheral arterial disease), you may experience cramping and have difficulty walking; if it's in the penis, you can develop erectile dysfunction; and if it's in the neck arteries, it can cut off the blood supply to the brain and cause a stroke.

The biggest danger, however, is to the heart. The arteries that cover the surface of the heart are particularly prone to clogging. Once fatty plaques clog these blood vessels, blood flow to the heart tissue is reduced. This can cause chest pain, or angina.

If plaque ruptures, a clot can form and cause a heart attack—a dramatic decline in the blood supply that causes heart tissue to die. (To find out if youre at risk for having a heart attack, take this test.)

What you can do about bad cholesterol
The artery-clogging process can start early in life. A 2008 autopsy study of adults ages 16 to 64 who died of non-heart-disease-related causes found that 83% had signs of heart disease and 8% had advanced disease. "We're seeing evidence of abnormality of blood vessels and obvious plaque in teenagers," says Dr. Nicholls.

Luckily, there are many things you can do to help prevent this process. "We know that lowering LDL cholesterol, the bad form, is clearly a good thing," says Dr. Nicholls. "The other thing we would highlight is the emerging role of HDL, or good cholesterol, the other player here."

Diet and exercise are critical for lowering LDL and raising HDL, notes Dr. Nicholls. (Click here for specific lifestyle changes that can lower heart disease risk.)

Cholesterol-lowering medication can also help, but you still need to watch your diet and exercise. "You can't just say, 'I'm being treated, so I can therefore not exercise and eat whatever I want,'" says Dr. Nicholls. "It doesn't work that way."

How can I reduce my cholesterol level?
Eat a healthy balanced diet

Eating lots of fruit, vegetables, and wholegrain is better than eating foods high in saturated or trans fats. You can replace saturated fats with the healthy monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats such as olive, rapeseed or sunflower oils and spreads.

Choose foods that are high in soluble fibre such as oats, beans, pulses, lentils, nuts, fruits and vegetables. Soluble fibre can help lower cholesterol.
Do regular exercise

Regular physical activity can help increase your HDL cholesterol (the good type of cholesterol). Staying active is great way to keep your heart healthy.
Quit smoking

Quitting smoking can help to lower your cholesterol and improve your heart health.
Will I need to take medication?

Whether or not you need to take cholesterol-lowering medicine depends on your overall risk of cardiovascular disease.

Cholesterol-lowering medicines such as statins are prescribed for people who are at greatest overall risk of cardiovascular disease. If you have questions about your medicines, speak with your doctor or call our Heart Helpline on 0300 330 3311. You can also look at our publications for more information.

Will eating sterol-enriched foods help reduce my cholesterol level?
Although the effect varies between individuals, there is evidence to show that plant sterols and stanols can help to reduce LDL cholesterol by levels up to 10-15% when 2g per day is regularly consumed as part of a healthy balanced diet.

But whilst there is an expectation that this would lead to fewer heart attacks, no clinical trials have been undertaken to show this. Sterols and stanols have been added to certain foods, including margarines, spreads, soft cheeses and yoghurts.

Will eating too many eggs raise my cholesterol?
For most people, the amount of saturated fat they eat has much more of an impact on their cholesterol than eating foods that contain cholesterol, like eggs, liver, kidneys and shellfish. Unless you have been told otherwise by your doctor or dietician, if you like eggs, they can be included as part of a balanced and varied diet

Some infectious diseases

noreply@blogger.com (F2P) — Fri, 08 Jul 2016 03:48:00 +0000

Infectious diseases are caused by microorganisms such as viruses, bacteria, fungi or parasites and can spread between individuals.

Mouse pox
Mouse pox is a highly infectious disease to which all strains of mice are susceptible, some more than others. Ectromelia is an excellent example of a virus carried and spread by apparently healthy mice. There may be no signs of illness, yet active virus may be readily recovered from viscera by blind passage. The virus obviously not only persists and multiplies despite a certain suppression by antibody, but also is shed through the feces. The virus was first described in England, but has since been reported from continental Europe as well as the United States ( Saunders, 1958a; Trentin, 1953). It is from 100 to 150 μ in diameter, is destroyed by exposure to 55°C for 30 minutes, but withstands 50 per cent glycerol and 0.5 per cent phenol for several months at refrigerator temperature. Clinical aspects of the disease have been described in detail by Fenner ( 1949) and Trentin ( 1953). The disease is generalized, the virus multiplying in cells of the skin, lymph nodes, liver, spleen, and other organs. In all these tissues intracellular eosinophilic inclusion bodies develop. The acute form, occurring in previously unexposed mice, is characterized by visceral lesions, usually hepatic necroses, the animals dying within days without external signs of illness. Sometimes inconspicuous external primary lesions are present such as swollen eyelids or pocked noses. The disease usually spreads rapidly throughout a susceptible colony, killing 50 to 95 per cent of the mice within weeks. The surviving mice develop circulating antibodies and often show a chronic form of the disease characterized by necrosis of the extremities, gangrene, crusting and scarring of skin, and regenerative lesions of internal organs. The foot lesions must be distinguished from those caused by Streptobacillus moniliformis. The most reliable diagnostic test for ectromelia infection is hemagglutination inhibition (HI). Either vaccinia or ectromelia virus is used as a red blood cell-agglutinating antigen. Serum from mice recovered from acute mouse pox will inhibit such agglutination of blood cells ( Burnet and Boake, 1946; Briody, 1959). The test can be quickly and conveniently carried out with as little as 0.05 ml of serum. The virus is demonstrated by intraperitoneal inoculation of visceral suspensions into susceptible mice. These animals ordinarily die 4 to 6 days after inoculation and show the visible lesions of multiple focal necroses of the livers.

Mouse colonies can be protected from ectromelia by strict isolation to preclude contamination by infected mice and other materials. Once the disease is recognized, however, infected colonies should be destroyed and all presumably infected animals incinerated. Another preventative measure, applicable to valuable inbred stocks, is vaccination, either by scarification or intranasal instillation with vaccinia virus or with formolized liver suspensions from infected mice ( Shope, 1954). Although both Levaditi and IHD-T strains of vaccinia virus have been successfully employed, IHD-T is preferred because it is more immunogenic, does not induce HI antibodies, and will not interfere with the HI test for diagnosis of infection. It is therefore possible to distinguish between antibodies formed as a result of infection and those formed as a result of vaccination. Vaccinated mice may transfer the infection to unvaccinated cage mates but not to mice in other cages of the same room. DBA mice seem to be more resistant to contact infection than other stocks ( Briody, 1959).

Hepatoencephalitis group of viruses
Some viruses are capable of causing hepatitis, encephalitis, or both in suckling mice. These are designated as MHV, JHM, EHF 120, and H747 and are related by degrees of cross-immunity (complement-fixation, neutralization tests). All produce qualitatively similar histological lesions affecting mesothelial and endothelial surfaces. These viruses, particularly the neurotropic ones, have similar susceptible host species ranges and occur in latent form in mouse stocks. All are heat-labile and ether-sensitive and range in size from 80 to 120 μ. The MHV or mouse hepatitis virus gives rise to intranuclear inclusion bodies, but to produce active disease requires the synergistic action of Eperythrozoön coccoides, a red blood cell parasite. The link between the two agents is complex. References may be found in Gledhill and Niven ( 1955) and Gledhill ( 1962).

Neurotropic viruses causing spontaneous encephalitis
There are three groups of viruses causing spontaneous encephalitis with distinctions based on the type of pathological lesion. Theiler's FV, FA, FO, and GD-VII affect the gray matter primarily, producing lesions comparable to those found in poliomyelitis ( Theiler and Gard, 1940; Thompson et al., 1951). The second group includes the JHM virus which causes demyelinization ( Olitsky and Lee, 1955; Pappenheimer, 1958a). The third group, which does not cause demyelinization, consists of SK, the Columbia strain of Jungeblut, LCM or lymphatic choriomeningitis ( Traub, 1939; Haas, 1954), EK virus, herpes simplex, and eastern equine encephalitis.

Theiler's mouse encephalomyelitis. Spontaneous infections of the central nervous system due to this virus are considerably more prevalent in younger mice. Unless the disease is rapidly fatal, gradual flaccid paralysis, usually of the hind limbs, develops. Microscopically, anterior-horn lesions quite similar to those of human poliomyelitis (ganglionic cell destruction) are observed. However, there is no serological relationship between Theiler's virus and that of poliomyelitis. Theiler's virus is recoverable from the intestinal tract or central nervous system. Artificial infections are possible by virtually all routes, although the level of infective dose differs considerably. For a more detailed review see Maurer ( 1958a).

Lymphocytic choriomeningitis. Although mice of laboratory colonies may harbor this virus, the disease is carried in latent form with few animals showing clinical signs or dying. Clinical illness occurs only in young animals which may show photophobia, conjuctivitis, and convulsive leg movements. Tremors, spastic convulsions, and paralysis are observed in Artificial infections. Microscopically, leukocytic infiltration of the meninges, pleural exudation, and splenomegaly are found. Virus is detected by intracerebral inoculation of mice with sterile suspensions of brain, blood, or spleen from suspect animals. In view of the wide host range (mice, monkeys, dogs, guinea pigs, and man) LCM represents a hazard to both experimental animals and man. Aside from direct contact transmission, as by the urine of infected mice, the virus may also be spread by ectoparasites and mosquitoes. For a review see Maurer ( 1958b).

Pneumotropic viruses
A number of viruses have been implicated as causes of respiratory disease in mice. Among these are Nigg's pneumonitis ( Nigg and Eaton, 1944) and PVM or pneumonia virus of mice ( Mirick et al., 1952; Volkert and Horsfall, 1947).

K virus
K virus infection is also a respiratory disease. In suckling mice the clinical signs are labored breathing and early death. Large basophilic inclusion bodies are observed in greatly hypertrophied alveolar lining cells. On occasion, focal disseminated fatty liver dystrophy is found. Since the first description of the disease and isolation of the virus, the K virus has been isolated in several parts of the world, notably Australia ( Fisher and Kilham, 1953; Holt, 1959; Derrick and Pope, 1960). The virus presumably spreads by way of the urine and saliva, yet serological surveys of both laboratory and wild mouse colonies indicate that antibodies occur in only a small proportion of mice from infected colonies.

Livers of moribund suckling mice provide a source for a suitable complement-fixing antigen so that the virus may be detected by the presence of specific antibody, although intracerebral inoculation of newborn mice with suspect tissues is a more sensitive test. It has been suggested that the K virus may be generically related to polyoma in view of certain common biological properties such as size, stability, etc. (Kilham, cited by Rowe et al., 1962.

Salivary gland virus
This virus is ubiquitous in wild mouse populations, but has been observed in only a few laboratory colonies. Apparently the virus does not spread with ease ( Rowe et al., 1962) since even in infected colonies its incidence is 3 per cent or less. Virus isolation techniques must be used for laboratory diagnosis. Serological techniques are of little value, and inclusion bodies are rarely observed despite continual excretion of virus in saliva ( Rowe et al., 1962; Brodsky and Rowe, 1958). Two procedures (utilizing mouth swabs as a convenient source of virus) are generally employed: (1) isolation of the virus in mouse embryo tissue culture, and (2) inoculation of newborn mice. The disease may be suspected in suckling mice by their malnourished appearance and at necropsy by the gross yellow discoloration of the edges of the liver.

Thymic virus
The thymic agent has been discovered in as high as one-half the mice of one laboratory colony and is highly prevalent in wild mice. It is pathogenic only for newborn mice and is recognizable by the production of gross thymic necroses, visible about 2 weeks after inoculation. Direct virus isolation is the most reliable diagnostic means, although infected mice produce neutralizing antibodies in low titer. The salivary glands represent the best source of virus since naturally or artificially infected mice excrete the virus in saliva for periods of more than one year. In contrast to the mouse salivary gland virus, the thymic agent does not propagate in tissue culture ( Rowe and Capps, 1961).

Adenovirus
This virus regularly infects recently weaned mice after prolonged exposure to urine of carrier animals. Infection induces a good complement-fixing and neutralizing-antibody response. Spontaneous clinical disease rarely occurs. However, virus inoculation into suckling mice induces a fatal disease consisting in inflammation and necrosis of the heart, adrenals, and brown fat. Acidophilic intranuclear inclusion bodies occur in these and other tissues ( Hartley and Rowe, 1960). The virus produces cytopathic effects in mouse kidney tissue cultures. Fluids from such infected cultures contain an excellent complement-fixing antigen which reacts strongly with adenoviral antisera prepared in guinea pigs (but not with human, monkey, or dog antisera). Apparently the virus does not cross the placental barrier, since it has not been encountered in caesarian-derived colonies ( Rowe et al., 1962).

Reoviruses
The reovirus group is composed of three serotypes ( Sabin, 1959). Antibodies to reoviruses are assayed by hemagglutination inhibition, neutralization, or complement-fixation tests. Reo 3 virus can be detected by tissue-culture cytopathogenicity, inoculation of suckling mice, or mouse antibody production tests. The sera of some mice contain hemagglutination inhibitor which is undoubtedly nonspecific since it is commonly encountered even in specific-pathogen-free and germ-free mouse colonies.

Only Reo 3 is indigenous to mice and has been isolated from tissue suspensions containing Molony virus. The oncolytic virus of Nelson, obtained from a transplanted ascites tumor ( Nelson and Tarnowski, 1960) has been identified as Reo 3. Reo 2 has been encountered as a focal infection in several wild mouse populations which may have acquired infection by contact with other species, such as man and cattle ( Rowe et al., 1962).

Oncogenic and tumor-associated viruses
Gross ( 1961) has discussed the status of virus-induced neoplasms, including mouse leukemias as produced by cell-free leukemic filtrates, the induction of leukemia by filtrates of solid mouse tumors, and the filterable agent causing mouse mammary tumors (Bittner's milk factor). Sinkovics ( 1962) has reviewed viral leukemias in mice and oncogenic viruses are discussed in Chapters 27 and 28. We refer here only to mouse polyoma infection and the lactic dehydrogenase-stimulating viruses ( Gross, 1953; Stewart, 1953; Riley et al., 1960).

A detailed epidemiology of mouse polyoma infection has been developed after intensive studies. The classic techniques of virology for detection of antibodies reveal that mouse polyoma virus is widely disseminated among laboratory colonies and wild mouse populations. Focal reservoirs of infection are maintained by routes of transmission involving virus excretion in urine, feces, and saliva. Apparently the virus is not transferred transplacentally since mice derived by caesarean section for specific-pathogen-free or germ-free colonies have been negative to antibody tests. Polyoma virus (e.g., infected tissue culture fluid) induces multiple tumors when inoculated into newborn mice. Such tumors are of multicentric and multiple histological origins, with mixed tumors of the salivary glands most frequent. The virus is capable of producing tumors in other species as well.

From the epidemiology of polyoma virus infection several points are notable: (10 Resistance of infant mice is perfectly correlated with presence of maternal antibody titers; no tumors develop in offspring of positive mothers; (2) spontaneous parotid tumors are rarely found in naturally infected mouse colonies; (3) high antibody titers are present in milk of infected mice; and (4) maternally derived antibodies are presumably present in fetuses, since it has been shown that mice born of resistant mothers but not having access to immune mouse milk are resistant to polyoma infection.

Certain transmissible agents have been found to be associated with many transplanted and induced spontaneous tumors of mice ( Riley et al., 1960). These are manifested by biochemical response. Susceptible animals respond with five- to tenfold increases in serum lactic dehydrogenase (LDH) and by induction of other glycolytic enzymes after inoculation with plasma or organ extracts from tumor-bearing hosts. Natural transmission of the lactic dehydrogenase-stimulating agents(s) (LDH) occurs when normal mice are placed in the same cage with agent-infected mice or tumor-bearing mice. In most infected animals moderate splenomegaly occurs. Serum LDH elevation has been induced by inoculation with preparations of cells from infected mice ( Riley et al., 1961). Although there is a close correlation between LDH levels and the growth of several transplanted tumors, elevation is not directly related to the neoplastic process. There is evidence to indicate that the LDH factor is a virus, specifically of mouse origin, and that changes in the LDH level of a tumor-bearing animal depend on whether or not the LDH factor has become associated with that tumor ( Notkins et al., 1962). An increase in lactate dehydrogenase levels can also be induced by injection of several of the mouse hepatitis viruses. LDH virus may be eliminated as a contaminant of transplantable tumors by passage of such material through tissue culture. However, it has been reported that the agent can be propagated and maintained by serial passage on primary mouse embryo tissue-culture ( Yaffee, 1962). It can be inactivated by radiation and is unstable in the presence of ether ( Notkins et al., 1962).

Infantile diarrhea
Diarrheal disease of unweaned mice is a complex syndrome caused by a number of agents ( Pappenheimer, 1958b; Runner and Palm, 1953; Kraft, 1962). As is true for diarrheal disease in human infants, there is considerable evidence that no single pathogen is the causative agent ( Thomlinson, 1964; Erlandson et al., 1964; Altman, 1964; Payne, 1960; Barua et al., 1962). Rather, under certain environmental conditions (crowding, poor sanitation, improper nutrition, variable temperatures, too low or too high humidity, inadequate ventilation, etc.) ubiquitous viral or bacterial organisms may be incriminated as producing diarrheal or septicemic signs in unweaned mice. We find that host factors, such as strain of mouse and parity play a determining role in morbidity and degree of clinical signs.

The clinical signs of the syndrome are: slight-to-severe diarrhea in which fecal material ranges from bright yellow to light brown in color. Nursing mothers will sometimes very efficiently clean up the anal region of the affected animal so that only a slight "pasting up" condition is noted. Animals affected by diarrhea (usually 4 to 10 days of age) usually recover, but many are discarded as runts at weaning time. The diarrhea is often followed by constipation contributing to later mortality, Mortality more often occurs in animals not showing signs of diarrhea. Such deaths occur early, 1 to 2 days after onset of the disease in a litter. Survivors in these litters show varying degrees of diarrhea.

At necropsy, the only common finding is the presence of light colored and watery fecal material in the intestinal tract, with occasional bubbles of gas. Histologically the tissues demonstrate a mild catarrhal inflammation. Some workers have reported inclusion bodies in epithelial cells from live and intestinal tract.

Viral agents such as those described by Kraft ( 1962) are found in the intestinal contents and reportedly can be transmitted directly to susceptible animals through this medium. Various types of bacteria, coliforms, Proteus sp., and pseudomonads have been found in separate outbreaks of the disease.

Epidemiologically the disease usually occurs in cycles. In certain affected mouse colonies, diarrheal disease is rarely seen until the fall and winter months. Our studies suggest that lower humidity and less fresh outside air are involved in seasonal recurrence rather than length of day and seasonal variation in quality of diet.

Colonies in which diarrheal disease is enzootic may show longer periods between epizootic outbreaks when moved to new quarters. During an outbreak the disease can be controlled by the use of broad-spectrum antibiotics such as the oxytetracyclines or tetracyclines administered in the drinking water. Therapeutic doses are administered over a 2-week period to all animals in a breeding colony. The preferable medication period is during the last third of pregnancy. This treatment is repeated in 2 weeks. Such therapy results in marked increase in the numbers of healthy-looking mice weaned and a decrease in the incidence of diarrhea. Similar effects are produced by the use of air-filtering material placed around each breeding cage or by the use of aluminum foil covering 50 per cent or more of open cage surfaces. The effects shown by cage modification (air filtering, foil covers) may be due to decreased aerosol dose levels. The use of certain types of highly absorbent bedding material also results in a higher recovery rate and a decrease in diarrheal disease. All of these control measures singly or in combination result initially in marked improvement of colony health, but usually over a period of months the disease reappears. Also, the effects of combining such control measures are not additive but only as good as the best measure used alone. Other effective control and prevention measures entail a variety of steps to isolate each breeding pen completely.

Much remains to be learned of the causes of infantile diarrheal disease, but the diarrhea should be considered as an accompaniment of certain diseases of suckling mice and not as a disease entity in itself.

BACTERIAL DISEASES
The spontaneously occurring or latently present bacterial diseases of mice are numerous, and the mouse is also susceptible to experimental infection by many pathogens from other species. Because of the small size of the animal, its habits, and the complexity of husbandry methods applied, it is extremely difficult to evaluate the health of a single animal by the usual clinical methods. Instead, an epidemiological approach is necessary. The population or a percentage thereof is observed for common factors which can be related to the various signs of morbidity and to mortality rates ( Shope, 1964).

Salmonellosis
Infection by Salmonella sp. is one of the more common types of bacteriological infections of mice ( Habermann and Williams, 1958a; Lane-Petter, 1963). The most commonly found strain is Salmonella typhimurium. However, mice are highly susceptible to infection by most of the Salmonella sp. organisms and other strains have been reported as responsible for epizootics or as latently infecting a few mice in a colony ( Wetmore and Hoag, 1960; Hoag et al., 1964a). The degree of virulence is dependent largely upon the dose and route of infection and the strain of host mouse as well as upon the inherent virulence of the organism itself. Salmonellosis is characterized initially by diarrhea or soft stools, sudden deaths, anorexia, and cachexia. Large number of animals are often lost not by death, but by the culling of underweight and poor-looking mice. The initial outbreak of salmonellosis soon subsides into a chronic form of the disease wherein the organisms are shed in fecal material. The adult carriers often appear healthy, but suckling and growing mice show great variation in body weight and rates of gain. Occasional breeding pairs are affected by attacks of mild diarrhea evidenced by soft, light-colored fecal pellets. Cull rates are high chiefly because of variations in weight and the poor appearance of weanling mice. At necropsy only a few animals show the classic "white spotted livers." Many will show enlarged spleens, but no gross necropsy findings are pathognomonic. Spleen, liver, and both large and small intestine are the tissues of choice for bacteriological examination. Tissues should be separately cultured for the presence of the organisms. In moribund or sick-looking animals the liver and spleen will yield Salmonella, whereas the chronically infected cases will usually yield organisms from the intestinal tract only.

For the isolation of Salmonella sp. enrichment media, preferably Tetrathionate Broth (Difco Laboratories), should be inoculated with a quantity of minced or ground tissues and the media incubated at 37°C for 72 hours ( Hoag and Rogers, 1961). During this period subcultures to Brilliant Green Agar (Difco) are incubated at 37°C for 48 hours before being discarded as negative for salmonella growths. Serological identification of suspect bacterial colonies is then carried out with polyvalent or group-specific antisera. Specific identification is dependent upon further serological techniques.

The disease is not controllable by any known therapeutic measures. Broad-spectrum antibiotics such as tetracycline or oxytetracycline seem to be of some use in epizootics in increasing the numbers of survivors, but they will not cure chronically infected animals. Vaccines of various types have been found to be highly effective against clinical signs and mortality from the disease but do not prevent chronic infection and carrier states from developing ( Hoag et. al., 1964b). We have demonstrated that three differently prepared S. typhimurium vaccines were effective against as many as 100 LD50 challenge doses of S. typhimurium but all of the surviving animals, although appearing perfectly healthy, were shedding organisms in fecal material and had infected livers and spleens as long as 6 weeks after the challenge.

The disease is controlled by elimination of infected or carrier stocks. Several (at least two and preferably six) weekly fecal tests should be performed before concluding that an animal is free of infection, since intermittent and low-level shedders are commonly encountered in a chronically infected colony. Sanitation is an important part of preventing spread of the disease, since an important mode of transmission is by contact with contaminated objects. Food supplies and bedding material should be treated as potential sources of infection. Occasional parathyphoid carriers are found among mouse handlers, but are not important sources of animal infection.

Pasteurellosis
Pasteurellosis due to Pasteurella pseudotuberculosis, P. septica, or P. pneumotropica may occur spontaneously in laboratory mice ( Sellers et al., 1961; Tuffery, 1958; Hoag et al., 1962). The latter two organisms may be found in various tissues of apparently normal mice. Latently infected animals subjected to various types of stress (radiation, abrupt temperature changes) will often produce signs of acute disease: anorexia, lassitude, sudden deaths. The livers of animals infected with P. pseudotuberculosis present multiple focal abscesses. P. pneumotropica has been reported in outbreaks of pneumonia in mice and has also been found in normal-appearing lung tissue ( Jawetz, 1948; Jawetz and Baker, 1948). In other instances this organism has been isolated from the brain, uterus, testes, liver, or spleen of normal-appearing mice. In rare instances septicemic deaths have been attributed to P. pneumotropica. Pasteurellosis is probably a stress-induced disease and the causative organism most commonly a latent infective one.

The pasteurella organism is susceptible to the tetracycline or oxytetracycline types of broad-spectrum antibiotics but is usually resistant to penicillin. Outbreaks in which signs of disease are thought to be caused by pasteurella organisms (on the basis of isolations from organ tissue) may be treated by administering the effective antibiotics in the drinking water. Response to the drugs is immediate and favorable.

Pseudomonas infections
Infection with Pseudomonas aeruginosa is common in laboratory mouse colonies ( Flynn, 1963a). No signs of infection are manifest unless animals are subjected to radiation or other types of stress (cortisone, etc.) ( Flynn, 1963a; Wensinck et al. 1957; Verder and Rosenthal, 1961). Such treatment results in rapid onset of septicemic disease (anorexia, listlessness) and high mortality. At necropsy the organisms are easily cultured from all organs, particularly liver and spleen. Although not important as a spontaneous disease-causing organism, P. aeruginosa is of major concern to investigators using mice in experiments employing radiation. The organism is shed in feces and urine from chronically infected animals. Nearly 100 per cent of the animals in a colony may become rapidly infected by contamination and recontamination of drinking water, caging equipment, and feeds. The infection can be controlled by hyperchlorination and acidification of water used for drinking and cleaning ( Hoag et al., 1965). Sanitation procedures must be of the highest efficiency and detectable carriers eliminated. Carrier detection should not serve as a criterion for culling until after control procedures such as water treatment and intensified sanitation have been inaugurated, since it has been shown that most fecal shedders of the organisms are only transiently infected and will seemingly spontaneously "recover" if not exposed to further doses of the organisms in contaminated water. After control procedures have been in effect for several weeks, a test-and-slaughter program should be started. Pens containing mice shedding the organism should be provided from the colony.

Antibiotics and other drugs are of no value in treating the infection. In one instance when oxytetracycline was being administered in drinking water to inbred mice, it was found that the organism grew more rapidly in water containing hypertherapeutic levels of the drug ( Hoag et al., 1965).

Klebsiella infections
Latent infections with capsulated lactose-fermenting bacilli, often loosely identified as Klebsiella group organisms, are not uncommon ( Wilson and Miles, 1964). Such organisms are occasionally isolated from lung tissue of normal-appearing mice. Sometimes the organism is found in the nasopharyngeal region or in various body wastes. In certain outbreaks of pneumonia in mice, Klebsiella sp. can be recovered from 100 per cent of the lungs of sick or moribund mice. The organisms recovered vary greatly in virulence. Rarely, the bacterium can be recovered from abscesses of lung or from other internal organs and cutaneous areas. Improved sanitation and environmental constancy are recommended control measures.

Tyzzer's disease
Disease caused by Bacillus piliformis has been described by several workers ( Fujiwara et al., 1963; Fujiwara et al., 1964; Saunders, 1958b). Most agree that the organism occurs in an infected colony as an intestinal saprophyte and that clinical disease occurs only after animals have been stressed, as by adverse nutrition or by the effects of stressors introduced during the course of an experiment. Onset of disease signs is abrupt with death occurring 2 to 3 days afterward. Diarrhea may occur as the major sing or may affect only a few of the sick animals. Anorexia and other signs of septicemia are manifest. Some immunity develops in recovered animals.

The condition may occur in mice of all ages, but the highest mortality rate is observed in 3- to 7-week-old animals. The most striking necropsy finding is the occurrence of numerous grayish-white spots (up to 2.5 mm in diameter) on the outer and cut surfaces of the liver. Mesenteric lymph nodes are usually enlarged and sometimes abscessed. Microscopically the organisms (long, thin, Gram-negative rods) are found intercellularly, surrounding the necrotic tissue areas, but are also seen in intact liver cells as well. the organisms have been reported as cultivatable in tissue culture, but cannot be grown on defined bacteriological media. Diagnosis is by histological sectioning and staining of tissues with subsequent demonstration of stained organisms.

Differences between mouse strains in susceptibility have been demonstrated, but it is emphasized that any incidence in a mouse colony represents a disease potential and infected colonies must therefore be considered as hazardous for other research. Little work has been done to demonstrate the effectiveness of therapy, although oxytetracycline has been of value ( Tuffery, 1958).

PPLO (Pleuropneumonia-like organisms)
Infections with organisms described as PPLO have been chiefly reported as causing catarrhal disease in mice ( Nelson, 1958). Some outbreaks of disease of the upper respiratory tract are characterized by sudden onset and involvement of a large percentage of a colony usually after chilling or overheating. Chattering and sniffling with variable nasal discharge are the observable signs of infection. Mortality rates are low, and recovery from the exudative catarrh is spontaneous. A few animals succumb to bronchopneumonia or may develop a chronic bronchiectatic pneumonia. In other types of upper respiratory disease caused by PPLO the onset is gradual and the outbreak appears enzootic in character, Because of the chronic nature and long course of the disease, the eventual involvement of large numbers of animals may give the appearance of a suddenly occurring epizootic disease, particularly if the mild symptoms in the early stages of the condition are unnoted. Labyrinthitis (manifested by disequilibrium) may occur in a few of the mice.

PPLO organisms are often found in animals from an apparently healthy colony and may be recovered from various tissues other than lung material ( Freundt, 1959). The pathogenic potential of latent infections is always manifest but has not been quantitatively evaluated.

Streptobacillus moniliformis
Infections with Streptobacillus moniliformis are usually latent. In certain outbreaks where clinical signs include lameness and swelling of joints and extremities (due to edema), the organism is readily isolated from blood and organs, including affected joints ( Wilson and Miles, 1964; Freundt, 1956). In other instances the organism is not found in the bacterial cell state, but is isolated with extreme difficulty in L form by PPLO culture techniques ( Freundt, 1959). Clinical signs are often confused with those seen in chronic ectromelia, and for this reason an early differential diagnosis is indicated ( Lane-Petter, 1963). Stress plays an important role in the activation of latent infection. In many outbreaks mice will arrive in apparently good health after exposure to adverse shipping conditions, but within 3 to 4 days 10 to 50 per cent will develop signs of the disease — swellings and ulcerations of feet and tail after the appearance of a sharp band of demarcation proximal to the swelling. Recovery is usually spontaneous, although severely affected animals are deformed because of deranged circulation to extremities with subsequent sloughing of the entire area distal to the necrotic demarcation band. In our experience antibiotics such as tetracycline and oxytetracycline seem to be useful in controlling outbreaks. In clinically affected animals these drugs serve to mitigate the severity of developing lesions.

PARASITIC DISEASES

Helminth infections
Mice may become infected with helminths from other species ( Haberman and Williams, 1958b). Outbreaks of infection with Taenia taeniformis can occur when mice are housed in the same area with cats. Infections with the various helminths rarely produce clinical signs and are only potentially important as producing unpredictable variables in animals used in research. Heavily infected animals are below norms in weight and may be anemic. Some mouse colonies may be infected with Hymenolopis nana (the dwarf tapeworm). The life cycle of this parasite does not involve any secondary hosts, with infection taking place directly from eggs excreted in feces. Upon necropsy, the tapeworm is easily observed through the walls of the unopened intestinal tract.

Mouse colonies are often infected with the oxyurids Syphacia obvelata and Aspiculuris tetraptera. These mouse pinworms have a direct life cycle and spread through a colony rapidly because of the large numbers of eggs excreted and the ease with which the eggs are airborne. There are no clinical signs of oxyuriasis. There may be some weight and growth variation between infected and noninfected animals, but other signs such as poor hair coat, etc., are not clear-cut. There is some evidence that oxyuriasis may contribute to rectal prolapse. Diagnosis can be made by examination of fecal material or the anal region for oxyurid eggs by the various flotation or contact-tape techniques. Pinworm infection may be eliminated by treatment with various drugs such as the piperazine compounds, usually most efficacious when administered via drinking water ( Hoag, 1961). Treatment must be accompanied by through cleaning of the room and caging equipment to remove the possibility of reinfection from egg-contaminated dust.

Arthropod infections
Lice (Polyplax serrata) and mites (Myobia musculi, Myocoptes musculinus, Myocoptes romboutsi, Radfordia affinis, and Psoregates simplex) are the chief ectoparasites of laboratory mice ( Flynn, 1963b). Their presence is manifested by hair loss and scratching, which may give rise to bacterially infected ulcerative wounds. It is not unusual for mice to die in a heavily infested colony as a result of these infected sores.

Control of ectoparasites is difficult. Various dusting powders containing DDT, methoxyclor, rotenone, or other parasiticides, and dips containing aramite or other materials have been used, but must be regularly or periodically applied. Bedding materials either treated with aromatic hydrocarbons (such as crude cedar wood oil) or naturally containing such materials (cedar wood shavings) are successful in suppressing infestations.

PROTOZOAN INFECTIONS
Several types of protozoan diseases have been reported in mice. Most are inapparent infections, noted only after synergistic activity with other agents such as viruses or after interference with immunological body defenses as by splenectomy, Control is usually by improving hygiene after elimination of infected animals or whole colonies.

Eperythrozoön coccoides occurs as a blood parasite in the form of disc-shaped structures on the surface of red blood cells. Splenectomy of infected mice results in a marked increase in the numbers of parasitized cells and onset of transient mild anemia. The presence of this parasite increases susceptibility to such infectious agents as the mouse hepatitis virus, lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus, and lactate dehydrogenase-elevating virus ( Seamer et al., 1961; Riley, 1964).

Hemobartonella muris is another red blood cell parasite activated in infected mice after splenectomy ( Griesemer, 1958). Infectivity is very low. The anemia produced is mild and transitory.

Eperythrozoön cuniculi causes mild febrile disease in mice, infects epithelial cells of the kidney papillae, and produces granulomatous lesions in brain tissue ( Yost, 1958). These organisms occur as 1.5- to 2.0-μ Gram-positive rods. Transmission is apparently by way of urine, which may contain large numbers of organisms.

Klosiella muris has been described as causing an infection of mouse kidney epithelial cells ( Dunn, 1949). Signs of disease are inapparent although, on necropsy, kidneys of infected animals may be surface-marked with varying numbers of tiny grayish-white foci. Transmission is by way of spore cysts released into the urine.

MYCOTIC INFECTIONS
Mycotic infections of mice usually produce a dermatitis. Such infections, which can be caused by any one of several Trichophyton or Microsporum sp., result in circumscribed encrusted areas with hair loss and are empirically called ringworm. The fungus from the lesions may be easily demonstrated by microscopic examination of skin scrapings ( La Touche, 1957). Control of the colony infection is difficult. Outbreaks are chiefly important as sources of human infection as most of these fungi cause similar lesions in man.

SUMMARY
The mouse is susceptible to an array of infectious agents. Many of these agents produce signs of disease and must be eliminated or controlled if only to maintain sizable mouse populations. On the other hand, because the mouse is so important as a biological yardstick for measurement of varied procedures, it becomes important as well to eliminate or control those infectious agents which do not produce observable disease, but which may affect the outcome of an experiment. The development of mouse colonies from caesarean-derived stock is an effective panacea for eliminating those disease agents which cannot penetrate the placental barriers. In another respect, it is important to study the synergistic or antagonistic effect of various disease agents either in combination with each other or with other factors so that information so derived may contribute toward man's understanding of his own disease problems. It would be unfortunate to eliminate completely all disease of mice before obtaining more complete knowledge of the etiology, epidemiology, and pathology of such naturally occurring conditions.

Infant's need for breast milk

noreply@blogger.com (F2P) — Thu, 07 Jul 2016 08:02:00 +0000

Breast milk provides the ideal nutrition for infants. It has a nearly perfect mix of vitamins, protein, and fat -- everything your baby needs to grow.
And it's all provided in a form more easily digested than infant formula. Breast milk contains antibodies that help your baby fight off viruses and bacteria. Breastfeeding lowers your baby's risk of having asthma or allergies. Plus, babies who are breastfed exclusively for the first 6 months, without any formula, have fewer ear infections, respiratory illnesses, and bouts of diarrhea.
They also have fewer hospitalizations and trips to the doctor.

Breastfeeding has been linked to higher IQ scores in later childhood in some studies. What's more, the physical closeness, skin-to-skin touching, and eye contact all help your baby bond with you and feel secure. Breastfed infants are more likely to gain the right amount of weight as they grow rather than become overweight children. The AAP says breastfeeding also plays a role in the prevention of SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome). It's been thought to lower the risk of diabetes, obesity, and certain cancers as well, but more research is needed.

Breastfeeding can protect your baby from developing allergies
Babies who are fed a formula based on cow's milk or soy tend to have more allergic reactions than breastfed babies.

Scientists think that immune factors such as secretory IgA (only available in breast milk) help prevent allergic reactions to food by providing a layer of protection to a baby's intestinal tract. Without this protection, inflammation can develop and the wall of the intestine can become "leaky." This allows undigested proteins to cross the gut where they can cause an allergic reaction and other health problems.

Babies who are fed formula rather than breast milk don't get this layer of protection, so they're more vulnerable to inflammation, allergies, and other eventual health issues.

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One large study by the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences showed that children who are breastfed have a 20 percent lower risk of dying between the ages of 28 days and 1 year than children who weren't breastfed, with longer breastfeeding associated with lower risk.

The main immune factor at work here is a substance called secretory immunoglobulin A (IgA) that's present in large amounts in colostrum, the first milk your body produces for your baby. (Secretory IgA is present in lower concentrations in mature breast milk.) The substance guards against invading germs by forming a protective layer on the mucous membranes in your baby's intestines, nose, and throat.

Your breast milk is specifically tailored to your baby. Your body responds to pathogens (virus and bacteria) that are in your body and makes secretory IgA that's specific to those pathogens, creating protection for your baby based on whatever you're exposed to.

Breastfeeding's protection against illness lasts beyond your baby's breastfeeding stage, too. Studies have shown that breastfeeding can reduce a child's risk of developing certain childhood cancers. Scientists don't know exactly how breast milk reduces the risk, but they think antibodies in breast milk may give a baby's immune system a boost.

Breastfeeding may also help children avoid a host of diseases that strike later in life, such as type 1 and type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, and inflammatory bowel disease. In fact, preemies given breast milk as babies are less likely to have high blood pressure by the time they're teenagers.

For babies who aren't breastfed, researchers have documented a link between lack of breastfeeding and later development of Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.

The benefits of sea water for the skin

noreply@blogger.com (F2P) — Thu, 07 Jul 2016 07:10:00 +0000

It is well known that spas all over the world use sea salt in their beauty and massage treatments. Why?

The salt contained in the sea water helps remove toxins from the skin and acts as a natural exfoliator – it removes dead cells and encourages the production of the new ones.

Sea water replenishes our skin with minerals. Magnesium in particular improves its hydration, as well as its overall appearance.

One of the most important sea water health benefits lies in its ability to heal damaged and irritated skin.

Sea water can reduce inflammation and help cure many skin disorders such as atopic dermatitis, rosacea, psoriasis and eczema.

It has great antiseptic properties, very useful in healing minor wounds, cuts, rashes and abrasions – salt and potassium chloride seem to be majorly responsible for these beneficial, mending effects.

All in all, sea water greatly improves skin texture, increases its elasticity and alleviates and heals many skin discomforts.

also

- the sea heals all wounds, and I mean that literally. If you have any cuts or scratches on your body just immerse yourself in the water. Salt water cleans the wound and helps it heal faster though it might sting a little bit.

- Another benefit of swimming in sea water is that sand and the sea acts as a natural exfoliator. So while your standing in the water, grab a handful of sand and scrub it out.

- Do you know how you come back with a natural glow after a beach filled weekend? Well that is because sea water removes toxins from the skin, and replenishes it with minerals.

- Don't listen to your body when you are feeling sick and stay in bed. One of the amazing benefits of sea water is that it has the ability to cure flu symptoms, especially a runny nose.

- Have you ever heard of a person unhappy at the beach? The most important benefit of sea water is that is that , combined with the sun, can help with depression and stress, and helps you relax.

- Are you worried about your acne this summer? Don't sweat it, sea water is an excellent way to help clear up your acne and lessen your scars. It's a great natural way to deal with your acne troubles.

Keep your youth in the simplest way

noreply@blogger.com (F2P) — Wed, 06 Jul 2016 06:30:00 +0000

Eat your veggies

raw fresh or frozen are best because they are the most nutrient dense. Below are just a few examples of vegetables to eat to keep yourself young.

Carrots: Keep your eyesight keen with carrots.
Avocados: Filled with “good fats” that help control cholesterol and fight liver damage and are also amazing for the skin.
Pumpkin: This squash is a fall favorite, but loaded with health benefits. It is anti- inflammatory, has a lot of vitamin C and has been shown to protect the joints from arthritis.
Spinach: Keeps the mind sharp and also protects against a variety of cancers including ovarian cancer.
Cauliflower: helps prevent the growth of breast cancer cells. It's cousin Broccoli has also been shown to help prevent breast cancer and fight the negative effects of diabetes.
Asparagus: helps promote healthy intestinal flora, important for strong defenses and building immunity.
Cabbage: This vegetable is one of the most nutritionally dense when it comes to preventing cancers.

Fresh Fruit

this is the best way to satisfy the sweet tooth and still give your body what it needs. Fruits are filled with anti-oxidants and nutrients that are essential to great skin. Some of the best fruits for your health and their benefits are listed below.

Fresh Berries: Blackberries, blueberries, strengthen collagen for better skin structure. They have also been shown to help maintain/improve memory function because they protect the brain.
Strawberries: help prevent Alzheimer’s disease, lower bad cholesterol, and are packed with B & C vitamins.
Papaya: Contains an enzyme that helps fight fat and it also aids digestion.
Kiwi: One kiwi has much more vitamin C than an orange and they are good at fighting wrinkles.
Plums/Prunes: Loaded with antioxidants and help prevent bone loss
Watermelon: Helps prevent sun damage to the skin
Pomegranates: Extremely potent anti-oxidants. Pom helps protect against sunburn and fights bad cholesterol.

Natural Anti-Aging Skin Care

You don't need to purchase overpriced cleansers, skin creams and miracle potions. You can use simple to find ingredients to make wonderful facial masks and exfoliants that are 100% natural and will not irritate or harm your skin. Most of us as we age are prone to dry skin. Here is my favorite treatment for exfoliating and doing a mask for extra dry skin.

To exfoliate: use a ¼ cup sugar or sea salt (or combine the two) and add just enough olive oil to form a paste. Rub into the skin gently in a circular motion – rinse with warm washcloth.

Follow with this mask: Smash ½ a banana with ½ an avocado and add the liquid from a few vitamin E gel caps and a tsp of coconut oil. Mix thoroughly, spread over face, neck, and chest area and allow to sit for 15 – 30 minutes. Rinse of gently with warm water. Your skin will be so soft you won't recognize it. You can put this all over the body for a body mask if you wish.

Always wear sunscreen, even in the winter and even when it's cloudy. Also be sure to regularly place sunscreen on your arms. A lot of damage is done while driving when the sun hits your arms for example – things we don't typically think about that add up.
See the list of fruits and veggies above – several of them are great for helping skin ward of sun damage and for boosting collagen production, which keeps skin buoyant and firm looking.
When you moisturize daily (and you should) be sure to get the neck and chest area which are often overlooked and tend to age the fastest.
For smoother looking hands, rub heavy cream into them at night. Shea butter or cocoa butter are good choices. Place white cotton gloves on overnight and in the morning your hands will be smooth and silky. - also, NEVER crack your knuckles! It's bad for your joints and will make your hands age faster than anything.
Use a skin cream with Retinol in it (vitamin A) as it boosts natural skin production of Collagen.
Keep a couple of spoons in the freezer. Take them out as needed to help reduce puffiness around the eye area by simply placing over your eyes for 5-10 minutes while you relax.

Anti-Aging Tips for Hair

Don't wash your hair every day. Daily washing is a marketing gimmick and is not necessary to be clean and is very hard on the hair. Every other day is typically more than sufficient and you can do it less if you have dry hair.
Never use shampoos that contain sulfates. This means you may have to purchase shampoo from a specialty shop or online as opposed to your local retailer. You get what you pay for with shampoos and sulfates strip the hair – not only of dirt, but of shine and color as well.
Avoid over-processing your hair and opt for a hairdo that requires as little blow drying and appliance use as possible.
Don't cut your hair too short – It used to be that once women hit a certain age they were issued their “bullet proof helmet” hair and that is so aging – and not very attractive. Wear hair that suits your face shape, is not overly processed and if you're hair is thinning consider wearing a layered style to give added body and bounce naturally. Don't ever tease your hair if you want to keep it - that is the worst thing you can do if you have thinning hair.
If you have fair skin, avoid the use of very dark hair dyes. Dying your hair black when you have fair skin will age you very quickly. Opt for lighter, warmer shades of color.
If your skin has become dull, add soft highlights around the face to brighten the skin and eyes and give a more youthful glow to your appearance.
Watch for breakage – hair becomes more brittle as we age. Don't comb it roughly, especially when wet. Also avoid pulling into tight ponytails and braids all the time as it causes more breakage.Trim split ends regularly.
Don't spend a fortune on deep conditioning treatments - do it yourself. Mix together 1/4 cup beer and 1/4 cup olive or coconut oil (or blend of oils) rub thoroughly into slightly damp hair, cover with shower cap and towel for 30 minutes and then wash your hair as usual. this will add moisture and shine (and no you won't smell like a bar.

The health benefits of frozen lemon

noreply@blogger.com (F2P) — Tue, 21 Jun 2016 04:28:00 +0000

Lemons are acidic to the taste but are alkaline forming in the body. In fact, they are one of the most alkaline forming foods; this makes them great for balancing a highly acidic condition in the body.

Lemons are a favourite all over the world and an essential food in kitchens around the world.
Learn how to use them properly in our Spring Cleanse.

Wash a Lemon and put in the freezer till frozen then get a grater and shred the lemon (do not peel). . Sprinkle over foods - Soup, Cereals, Ice Cream, Noodles, Fish, Whisky, Wine the list is endless. The foods will have an unexpectedly wonderful taste, something that you may never have tasted before and the entire lemon can be used without any waste..

Lemon peel contains 5 - 10 times more vitamins than lemon juice itself and rejuvenates health and eradicates toxins from the body.

Lemon extract is a miraculous product that kills cancer cells and is 10,000 times stronger than chemotherapy. Laboratories are interested in making a synthetic version that will bring them huge profits. More than 20 laboratory tests since 1970 revealed that it destroys malignant cells and lemon extract was 10,000 times better than Adriamycin a chemo-therapeutic drug that slows the growth of cancer. Lemon only destroys malignant cancer cells and does not affect healthy cells. Lemon is also anti-microbial against bacterial infections and fungi and effective against internal parasites and worms, regulates high blood pressure and an anti-depressant that combats stress and nervous disorders

What are the health benefits of lemon when it relates to cancer? In addition to the Vitamin C found in lemon juice, which is already a very well known alternative cancer treatment in its own right, the peel of the lemon also offers many health benefits, one of the most important being that lemon peel can help to eradicate toxins in your body. This may be why lemons for cancer are being studied and touted as a great remedy.

The connection between cancer and lemons isn’t something new; for decades, scientists have wondered, “Is lemon a cancer killer?” and have developed numerous studies to determine its validity.

Studies have revealed that lemon extract can successfully destroy malignant cells in a wide range of cancers, including breast cancer, colon cancer, and lung cancer (see references below). Several research studies also make the claim that lemons can destroy cancer much more effectively than chemotherapy, and in a safer and healthier manner. Additionally, the studies also show that lemon extract therapy only affects malignant cells, leaving healthy cells unharmed.

Additional health benefits of lemon include:

It is antibacterial
It is antiviral
It aids in digestion
It can be used to treat acne
It helps to regulate blood pressure
It fights against parasites and worms
It possesses antidepressant qualities
It helps to reduce stress and anxiety

Please be cautious of claims perpetuating through the internet of lemons being “10,000 times better than chemotherapy”. If that is true, it is probably not because of the effectiveness of the lemons, but because of the ineffectiveness of chemotherapy! Seriously though, this author could not find any authoritative scientific work that established that as a fact. The statement is unscientific and unfounded. We prefer to approach it from the angle of a natural product that can form a nutritional barrier between health and disease. When you read the next few paragraphs, please keep this in mind

Precautions initial pregnancy

noreply@blogger.com (F2P) — Mon, 20 Jun 2016 03:09:00 +0000

Know what to expect at your prenatal appointment
In addition to confirming that you are pregnant, the first prenatal visit includes a variety of tests and examinations to assess your health, as well as the health of the fetus. It also helps establish the relationship between you and your health care provider. A typical first prenatal visit includes

Questions about your current and past medical history, including medications you take, smoking history, current health and previous illnesses, procedures, and pregnancies.
Dating your last period to determine a due date.
A physical examination, including a pelvic examination and a Pap test.
Testing for sexually transmitted infections.
Taking your weight and measurements.
Blood pressure measurement.
Urine testing for proteins and sugar levels.
Ultrasound to hear the baby’s heartbeat, which oftentimes is not heard until at least 6 or 7 weeks.

Talk with your doctor about prenatal testing
Towards the end of the first trimester, your doctor may talk to you about prenatal testing to further assess the health of the fetus. You can decide which tests you want to have done, but they will help determine things like genetic disorders, birth defects, or the potential for other disorders These tests are encouraged so that you can make the best health care decisions before and after your child is born

Talk to your doctor about any feelings of depression
Diagnosing mood disorders in pregnant women can be difficult because pregnancy causes so many similar symptoms, like fatigue, changes in appetite, and trouble sleeping. However, research shows that up to 33% of women experience clinical depression or an anxiety disorder during pregnancy, with only 20% seeking treatment. If you ignore these symptoms and don’t seek treatment, you are putting yourself and your baby at risk. Seek out a therapist who will help you using one of these treatment options:

Psychotherapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, where a skilled therapist will teach you new ways to manage your thoughts and emotions.
Adding more omega-3 essential fatty acids to your diet. These nutrients are found in foods like oily fish and nuts, and they can act as a natural mood-booster.
Light therapy, where patients are exposed to artificial sunlight at specific times of the day to help relieve depression symptoms
Acupuncture, an ancient Chinese practice that involves placing tiny needles into areas of the body to influence your mood.
Antidepressant medication.

Know how much weight you should be gaining
You may experience cravings in the first trimester, but just because you are pregnant doesn’t mean you should eat whatever you want whenever you want to! Monitoring your calorie intake is especially important because recent studies have shown that overweight mothers can negatively impact the health of a child throughout his or her life. While specifics may vary per person, general weight guidelines are.

Get regular exercise
It is important to talk to your doctor about your exercise plans, but typically it is encouraged for women to continue a previous exercise program or to begin a moderate exercise program during pregnancy. Regular low-impact exercises like walking or swimming are usually encouraged. Some additional guidelines include:

Avoid exercising in hot weather and avoid overheating in general.
Be sure to drink water before, during, and after exercising.
Be sure to do stretches and warm-up exercises to increase your breathing and heart rate slowly. Do the same at the end of your workout.
Only exercise at a moderate level (you should be able to comfortably talk during your workout) and stop if you feel tired.

Do not bother your stomach please

noreply@blogger.com (F2P) — Fri, 17 Jun 2016 02:44:00 +0000

Tummy trouble can be short-lived, come and go, or show up only after you eat—all clues to the cause. Doctors can also run a number of tests to narrow it down, says Vivek Kaul, MD, acting chief of the division of gastroenterology and hepatology at the University of Rochester Medical Center in Rochester, N.Y.

A stomach ache is a term often used to refer to cramps or a dull ache in the tummy (abdomen). It's usually short-lived and is often not serious.

Severe abdominal pain is a greater cause for concern. If it starts suddenly and unexpectedly, it should be regarded as a medical emergency, especially if the pain is concentrated in a particular area.

- Food poisoning, or food-borne illness, is a condition that occurs as a result of eating food that is contaminated with infectious organism or toxins produced by these infectious organisms. A number of bacteria, viruses or parasites can cause food poisoning, but some of the most common include E. coli and salmonella. Each case of food poisoning varies based on the type of organism that causes the illness; however, general symptoms include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fatigue, abdominal pain, stomach cramps, loss of appetite and fever. MayoClinic.com notes that symptoms may begin within hours of eating the contaminated food and can last from one to 10 days. Most cases of food poisoning do not require medical intervention. It is important to stay hydrated while symptoms persist to avoid dehydration. Those who are severely dehydrated because of the symptoms of food poisoning may require intravenous administration of fluid and electrolytes to normalize fluid and salt balance in the body.

- Information obtained by taking a patient's history is important in helping doctors determine the cause of pain. This includes the way the pain begins, its location, pattern, and duration. It also includes what makes the pain worse as well as what relieves it. Associated signs and symptoms, such as fever, diarrhea, or bleeding also are considered.

- When does the pain occur? Always? More often in the morning or at night? If the pain comes and goes, about how long does it last each time? Does it occur after eating certain types of foods or after drinking alcohol? During menstruation? These are typical questions your doctor may ask that may help determine the cause. For example, abdominal pain that comes on suddenly may suggest a sudden event such as the interruption of the supply of blood to the colon (ischemia) or obstruction of the bile duct by a gallstone

For your health Enjoy olive oil

noreply@blogger.com (F2P) — Tue, 14 Jun 2016 17:47:00 +0000

Olive oil has numerous beneficial qualities. Apart from being a good cooking aid, it is also known to have unique medicinal qualities. Some of them are as follows:
Reduce Heart Problems: Natural olive oil contains 70% monounsaturated fatty acid. As a result, it lowers cholesterol accumulation in the blood and reduces heart problems. It reduces the LDL, while at the same time increasing the HDL levels. The website of Montelcastelli Solutions Ltd. provides a table comparing the fatty acid composition of different types of oils.

Thanks to its status as a spotlight food in the Mediterranean Diet, and thanks to extensive research on its unique phytonutrient composition, olive oil has become a legendary culinary oil with very difficult-to-match health benefits. Among its extensive list of phytonutrients, no single category of nutrients is more important than its polyphenols. The polyphenol content of this delicious oil is truly amazing! The list below shows some of the key polyphenols found in olive oil, organized by their chemical category:

Simple Phenols
- tyrosol
- hydroxytyrosol
Terpenes
- oleuropein
- ligstroside
Flavones
- apigenin
- luteolin
Hydroxycinnamic acids
- caffeic acid
- cinnamic acid
- ferulic acid
- coumaric acid
Anthocyanidins
- cyanidins
- peonidins
Flavonols
- quercetin
- kaempferol
Flavonoid glycosides
- rutin
Lignans
- pinoresinol
Hydroxybenzoic acids
- vanillic acid
- syringic acid

Most of the polyphenols in this list have been shown to function both as antioxidants and also as anti-inflammatory nutrients in the body. The very number and variety of polyphenols in olive oil helps explain the unique health benefits of this culinary oil.

Identify the causes of visual impairment

noreply@blogger.com (F2P) — Sun, 12 Jun 2016 04:55:00 +0000

This can be caused by many different things, including abnormalities in the development of the eye or injury to eye structures from things like prematurity related retinopathy or infections or by developmental problems or injury to the parts of the brain responsible for vision. Some of the factors placing an infant, toddler, or child at significant risk for visual impairment include:

Prematurity, low birth weight, needing to be treated with oxygen at birth, or bleeding in the brain
Family history of retinoblastoma, congenital cataracts, or metabolic or genetic disease
Infection of mother during pregnancy such as rubella, toxoplasmosis, cytomegalovirus, HIV, and some sexually transmitted infections including herpes, gonorrhea and chlamydia)
Problems with the central nervous system such as developmental delay, cerebral palsy, seizures, or hydrocephalus.

Macular degeneration deterioration of the central part of the retina
Cataracts clouding of the lens of the eye
Glaucoma damage to the nerve connecting the eye to the brain caused by increased pressure inside the eye
Eye injuries
Tumors involving the eye or surrounding structures in the head and neck

PREVENTION

Protect your eyes from sunlight and other ultraviolet (UV) light exposure (such as tanning beds). Wearing UV-protective sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat helps to limit UV exposure to the eyes.
Wear protective eyewear when working with tools or during recreational activities. Eye injuries are a common cause of vision loss for individuals in the United States.

Schedule regular eye examinations to detect inadequate vision correction, find cataracts, test for glaucoma, and evaluate general eye health.
Stop smoking. Smoking has been linked to development of cataracts and macular degeneration in addition to all the other health problems smoking causes.
Treat chronic diseases, especially diabetes. Good control of blood sugar levels will help reduce your chances of developing diabetic retinopathy, the eye problem caused by diabetes. Regular screening eye examinations for persons with diabetes may help to detect diabetic retinopathy sooner. This may limit eye damage by making earlier treatment possible.

Benefits of eating figs

noreply@blogger.com (F2P) — Wed, 08 Jun 2016 22:38:00 +0000

Figs health benefits to treat mild disease such as get rid of acnes or pimples to prevent some cancer disease such as prostate cancer. Figs rich in beta-carotene, another high nutrient content in it is carbohydrates. Its contain vitamin A, C, E and K and other vitamins, also minerals such as calcium.

Richer in Fiber
Per fruit, figs offer a much better source of soluble fiber, with 4-5 grams per fruit versus dates which have around 2-3 grams. Figs are also linked to good digestive health, help to relieve constipation, and contribute to good heart health.

Lower in Sugar
For all of you out there who watch your sugar intake (good for you!), you’ll be glad to know that dried figs contain almost 7-10 grams less than dates per weight. Two to three dates is around 23 grams of sugar(depending on the size and variety), while the same amount of figs is only 13 grams of sugar. Since figs are higher in fiber and lower in sugar, they’re better if you have sensitive blood sugar levels.

Higher Source of Minerals
Figs also offer more minerals, especially iron, magnesium and calcium, in which they’re plentiful by double the amount of dates. The only exception is potassium, which figs are still high in, but not as high as dates. Figs are also higher in zinc than dates, but not by double like the other minerals. Calcium is an important nutrient for strong bones and a healthy nervous system, as is magnesium and iron. Zinc contributes to a healthy immune system and can also help keep your skin clear by combating inflammation.

Lower in Calories
Not to focus on calories over quality, but while we’re making a comparison, figs win in the calorie department too. Figs have 15 percent less calories than dates, which means you can eat double the amount that you can of dates and still satisfy your sweet tooth, or eat half the amount you would of dates to take in less sugar. Though it might not seem like a large amount, 15 percent by weight makes a big difference each time you eat
.
Helpful For Removing Harmful Estrogens
Estrogen is a hormone both women (and even men) have naturally. When functioning properly, our bodies produce the right amount at the time needed. However, environmental toxins, low-quality food, and even our health can all affect how much excess estrogen we take in. Too much estrogen in the body can lead to weight gain, mood swings, contribute to menopause problems or cause polycystic ovarian syndrome in women, cause headaches, and even breast or uterine cancer. Some foods naturally help remove harmful estrogens, and figs are one of the best, most well-known foods for this issue (along with pomegranates, onions, avocados, citrus fruits, kale, and broccoli). Dates don’t offer this same benefit, so if estrogen is a concern to you, rethink using those dates and try some figs instead.

So, there you have it- five reasons to give dried figs a try. Want the most antioxidants? Go with Black Mission figs, which are higher in antioxidants than other types of figs, along with higher than all forms of dates.

Weight loss
The fiber in figs also helps to reduce weight and is often recommended for obese people. However, their high calorie count can also result in weight gain, especially when consumed with milk. A few figs are enough to get the recommended amount of nutrients, so don’t overdo it! Remember, it is possible to have too much of a good thing.

Lower cholesterol
Figs contain Pectin, which is a soluble fiber. When fiber moves through the digestive system, it basically mops up excess clumps of cholesterol and carries them to the excretory system to be eliminated from the body. As a soluble fiber, pectin from figs also stimulates healthy bowel movements. Figs can have a laxative effect, as they are one of the most fiber-dense foods available. High amounts of fiber in your diet can benefit your overall health by preventing certain types of abdominal cancer, as well as colon cancer.

what is human allergic to cat hair

noreply@blogger.com (F2P) — Tue, 07 Jun 2016 21:51:00 +0000

Cats produce multiple allergens (proteins that can cause allergy). These allergens are found on the fur and skin and in saliva. All cats produce allergens; studies have not shown that cats can be hypoallergenic (meaning that they don’t cause allergy). Homes with more than one cat have higher levels of cat allergens. Characteristics such as the length of a cat’s hair, its sex and the amount of time a cat spends indoors are not associated with cat allergen levels.

If you suspect that you are allergic to cats, see an allergist for proper diagnosis and treatment.
A skin-prick test is the most common way of diagnosing a cat allergy. For this test, a small amount of an extract of cat allergen is placed on your skin. Your skin is then pricked with a small, sterile probe, allowing the liquid to seep under the skin’s surface. You’ll then be monitored for swelling and redness or other signs of a reaction, signaling an allergy. Results typically become evident within 15 to 20 minutes.
Even if you’re sure your symptoms are caused by a cat, it’s a good idea to be tested, since the symptoms may actually be caused by other environmental exposures.

If you or a member of your family is part of the 15% of our population allergic to pets, there are things you can do to help keep allergic reactions under control and make your home a much more comfortable place to live. Even if you do not have allergies, these tips are helpful if you have guests in your home that are allergic to animals

We spend from one third to one half of our time in our bedrooms. By keeping the animals out of the bedrooms at all times, we can greatly reduce the symptoms of pet allergies.
Install a good "HEPA" air cleaner.
Close the ducts to the bedrooms and use electric heaters.
Clean and vacuum regularly.
Bathe your pet weekly.
Do not allow your pet on the furniture.
Do not allow your pet in your car. (Or use car seat covers when your pet is in the car.)
Brush your pet daily and use an allergy-reducing spray such as Allerpet.
Keep your pet's skin healthy by feeding a high quality food and a fatty acid supplement.
Wash your hands after handling the pet, his toys, bed, etc.
See your physician and discuss possible immunotherapy or medications.

Try to address the balding

noreply@blogger.com (F2P) — Tue, 07 Jun 2016 21:20:00 +0000

The following two treatments have been clinically proven to successfully treat hair loss in men to varying degrees.

1 Minoxidil
is sold over the counter as a topical solution (liquid) under the brand nameWe don't know how minoxidil works. It was first used on patients with heart disease who reported an increased growth in their hair.
It may increase blood supply to the hair follicles.

About two-thirds of the men who use it have some improvement in their hair growth, ranging from minimal to moderate-to-dense regrowth.
If hair starts to regrow, it will probably be soft, downy and barely visible. With continued use, this new hair may become the same colour and thickness as the rest of your hair.
Regrowth of hair can be as much as 25 per cent of the existing hair, depending on how bad the hair loss has been and how long it has been happening.
It is not possible to tell in advance whether minoxidil will work for you, and there's no evidence it works better in younger men. They may get better results because hair loss is not as severe, but this would apply to a man in middle age too.
It isn't known why minoxidil works for some people and not others.

Regaine Extra Strength is a higher strength version of minoxidil and has a slightly better effect.

The first sign of new hair begins to show after two months and it peaks at around one year.
In trials comparing the two strengths, Regaine Extra produced 43 per cent more regrowth than the regular strength after 12 months' use.

2 Finasteride is an oral tablet treatment for male baldness. In the UK its brand name is Propecia.It is not available over the counter in shops or on the NHS: this means you will need to get a private prescription from your GP.
It works by inhibiting the action of an enzyme in the body called type II 5-alpha reductase. This enzyme is responsible for converting the male hormone testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT).
DHT is a hormone that can damage hair follicles and lead to hair loss in men who are genetically sensitive to it.
You take one tablet every day, with or without food
You will need to continue to use Propecia to maintain any benefits to hair growth.

This can be expensive, because doctors can only prescribe the medicine on a private prescription.
If you stop taking the drug, you are likely to lose any hair you have gained within 9 to 12 months.

Jogging to activate blood circulation

noreply@blogger.com (F2P) — Mon, 06 Jun 2016 17:17:00 +0000

Jogging is an excellent aerobic activity that is effective, inexpensive and easily performed. Jogging will improve the way your body burns calories and uses oxygen. Adding a jogging routine to your weight loss program is an excellent way to shed those extra pounds and improve your overall health and fitness at the same time. A jogging routine is very flexible and can be performed individually or with friends. Finally, jogging fits easily into most lifestyles and schedules, can be performed at virtually any time, and requires very little upfront or ongoing costs.

The physical effort it takes to jog causes your heart to pump harder than it does during normal activities. The action naturally increases circulation in your vessels. The improved circulation normalizes blood flow to the limbs, for example, preventing peripheral arterial disease. The condition is caused by a buildup of plaque in the arteries and it causes fatigue, pain and muscle cramps. Besides, since blood carries nutrients and oxygen to the cells, and every body part is made of cells, the enhanced circulation that results from jogging maintains organs and tissue functioning well.

Run at a manageable pace of ten minutes per mile and you will burn an average 4.2 calories per hour for every pound of your body weight (that is 588 calories per hour if you weigh 10st). That's more than you'd use swimming a slow front crawl or cycling at six minutes per mile.

As you get fitter and incorporate faster, higher-intensity bursts of running, these fat-burning effects will be even greater.
During one hour of running, you can expect to lose around one litre of fluid through sweat.

Muscles generate about 20 times more heat when doing exercise than when they are inactive, and fluid acts as an essential internal cooling mechanism.30-minute jogging routine typically burns between 240 and 400 calories for a 150-pound person. This type of caloric expenditure makes jogging an excellent exercise type for individuals that are looking to lose excess body weight. Adding a sound nutritional dietary plan to your jogging routine will increase the rate at which you lose weight by further increasing your daily caloric deficit.
In addition, jogging provides an excellent aerobic workout as it challenges your heart and lungs, thereby improving your cardiovascular endurance and your overall health and fitness. For the reasons listed in this article, jogging remains one of the most popular exercise types and is performed by literally millions of individuals every day.
While jogging offers many health benefits, it can also be somewhat hazardous, so you must ensure that you perform it correctly. Always stretch and warm up sufficiently, maintain proper form while actually jogging, do not over-exert yourself, and make sure to stay hydrated. By following these guidelines, you will help to ensure that your jogging routine adds to your overall level of fitness while minimizing your probability of injury.

beginning of forensic

noreply@blogger.com (F2P) — Mon, 06 Jun 2016 16:47:00 +0000

The term forensic
comes from the Latin and means, simply, having to do with the law. Hence, any discipline that has any ties to the legal system is, in fact, forensic. This is why so many job titles within criminology, such as forensic psychologist, are preceded by the term.

With regard to forensic science, the term is now commonly understood to refer to the application of scientific principles to questions of law. In short, it means using science to solve crime.

The rich history of forensic science has led to the development of many tools for analysing the traces of a crime. Do you think you could apply some of these techniques to solve a crime? RiAus is presenting the opportunity to put some of the techniques developed in forensic science into practice at the upcoming “Back In Time to Solve a Crime” event. Travel back to 1901 where a murder has been committed. Explore the Science Exchange, get involved and learn about the application of chemistry in crime scene analysis. Will you be able to catch the killer?

The science of forensics is now recognized as a critical ingredient in law enforcement and the solution of crimes. Protecting a crime scene from contamination and gathering and interpreting evidence accurately have become some of the most critical ingredients in crime-solving.

As a result, advances in technology are being applied to the finite and exacting field of forensic science, a field in which technical competency is achieved only by the synthesis of a number of factors, including training, experience, supervision, continuing education, proficiency and an appreciation of scientific methods and protocols projected against a background of stringent professional ethics.

Now that we are in the 21st century, forensic science must continue to develop and mature. In recent years, the blend of science and technology has enabled police to solve many crimes that once would have been considered beyond resolution.

The State Police Crime Laboratory System is at the forefront of efforts to develop new scientific crime-fighting capabilities and methods, including the use of databanks, high-tech equipment, tele-forensics and training involving the use of simulated crime scenes.

Many benefits of eating fish

noreply@blogger.com (F2P) — Sun, 05 Jun 2016 16:04:00 +0000

Eating fish is an important source of omega-3 fatty acids. These essential nutrients keep our heart and brain healthy. Two omega-3 fatty acids found in fish are EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). Our bodies don't produce omega-3 fatty acids so we must get them through the food we eat. Omega-3 fatty acids are found in every kind of fish, but are especially high in fatty fish. Some good choices are salmon, trout, sardines, herring, canned mackerel, canned light tuna, and oysters.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids:

Help maintain a healthy heart by lowering blood pressure and reducing the risk of sudden death, heart attack, abnormal heart rhythms, and strokes.
Aid healthy brain function and infant development of vision and nerves during pregnancy.
May decrease the risk of depression, ADHD, Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, and diabetes.
May prevent inflammation and reduce the risk of arthritis.

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A growing body of evidence indicates that omega-3 fatty acids provide a number of health benefits. They:

    help maintain cardiovascular health by playing a role in the regulation of blood clotting and vessel constriction;
    are important for prenatal and postnatal neurological development;
    may reduce tissue inflammation and alleviate the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis;
    may play a beneficial role in cardiac arrhythmia (irregular heartbeat), reducing depression and halting mental decline in older people.

The omega-3s found in fish (EPA and DHA) appear to provide the greatest health benefits. Fish that are high in omega-3s.

yes i will quit smoking

noreply@blogger.com (F2P) — Sun, 05 Jun 2016 15:37:00 +0000

Smoking causes
about 90% of lung cancers. It also causes cancer in many other parts of the body, including the:
    mouth
    lips
    throat
    voice box (larynx)
    oesophagus (the tube between your mouth and stomach)
    bladder
    kidney
    liver
    stomach
    pancreas

Smoking damages your heart and your blood circulation, increasing your risk of developing conditions such as:

    coronary heart disease
    heart attack
    stroke
    peripheral vascular disease (damaged blood vessels)
    cerebrovascular disease (damaged arteries that supply blood to your brain)

Smoking also damages your lungs, leading to conditions such as:

chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which incorporates bronchitis and emphysema
pneumonia

Smoking can also worsen or prolong the symptoms of respiratory conditions such as asthma, or respiratory tract infections such as the common cold.

In men, smoking can cause impotence because it limits the blood supply to the penis. It can also reduce the fertility of both men and women.
Health risks of passive smoking

Secondhand smoke comes from the tip of a lit cigarette and the smoke that the smoker breathes out.

Breathing in secondhand smoke – also known as passive smoking – increases your risk of getting the same health conditions as smokers. For example, breathing in secondhand smoke increases a non-smoker's risk of developing lung cancer by about a quarter.

Babies and children are particularly vulnerable to the effects of secondhand smoke. A child who is exposed to passive smoke is at increased risk of developing chest infections, meningitis, a persistent cough and, if they have asthma, their symptoms will get worse. They're also at increased risk of cot death and an ear infection called glue ear.

Read more about passive smoking.

Smoking a cigarette raises the blood pressure by 5-10 mm Hg for about 30 minutes. If this is combined with drinking a cup of coffee, the effects are bigger and last longer.

Despite this, numerous epidemiological studies have found that people with hypertension are not more likely to be smokers than those with normal blood pressure, and conversely, that smokers are not more likely to be hypertensive than non-smokers. One possible explanation for this might be that smokers tend to weigh less than non-smokers, and that the effects of obesity and smoking on blood pressure cancel each other out. But even when smokers and non-smokers of the same body weight are compared their blood pressures are the same. This is probably because the blood pressure measurements are usually made when people are not smoking. If you smoke a pack a day, it will raise your average daytime pressure by about 5 mm Hg, even though your doctor may not detect this during an office visit.

The important thing about smoking is not what it does to your blood pressure, but that it greatly increases your risk of heart disease.

get rid of the causes of insomnia naturally

noreply@blogger.com (F2P) — Sun, 05 Jun 2016 14:30:00 +0000

insomnia is

a persistent disorder that can make it hard to fall asleep, hard to stay asleep or both, despite the opportunity for adequate sleep. With insomnia, you usually awaken feeling unrefreshed, which takes a toll on your ability to function during the day. Insomnia can sap not only your energy level and mood but also your health, work performance and quality of life.

How much sleep is enough varies from person to person. Most adults need seven to eight hours a night.

Many adults experience insomnia at some point, but some people have long-term (chronic) insomnia. Insomnia may be the primary problem, or it may be secondary due to other causes, such as a disease or medication.

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1. Avoid caffeine in any form after lunch (coffee, tea, chocolate, cola and some other soft drinks that contain these stimulants, as well as the drugs are sold freely or to be redeemed by prescription, check the ingredients label). This is the last thing needed by insomnia.

2. Do not take a nap, no matter how you sleepy. (nap reduces the quality of sleep a night)

3. Take a bath as long and as comfortable as possible with warm water before going to bed. (This method can reduce the strain the muscles, so you can be relaxed right before bed).

4. Read a book or do something repetitively boring your activities, such as sewing. Try not to watch television or listen to the radio. Disorders such as this will require your attention and cause maintained.

5. Set the bedroom as comfortable as possible. Create a quiet and dark. Use pillows or blankets were clean and fresh and keep the room temperature comfortable as possible (not too hot or cold).

6. Eliminate all anxiety when sleeping. do not let yourself think about mistakes you have done this afternoon. Now you're not working. The point is linked with sleeping cots or mattresses.

7. Counting slowly similar to hypnotic activity. By imagining a continuous monotone image, may make you tired and can finally sleep

8. Step that no less important is the reflection therapy to loosen the tension of routines and have been proven to treat chronic insomnia.

9. Eating cherry. In the evening, try eating some cherry fruit. The experts found that cherry jam has the same function with melatonin, a hormone released by the body that will keep sleep patterns.

10. Dinner with seafood. Dinner with seafood, such as fish, can make sleep more soundly. Cod, tuna, snapper, halibut, and shrimp, contain tryptophan, which is very good to help you sleep soundly. The amount is comparable to the turkey.

11. Avoid consumption of chili. Far-Far from the chili if you want to go to bed. Because eating spicy foods before bed can raise your body temperature and keep you asleep, and also increases the heart rate.

woman can you relieve menstrual pain

noreply@blogger.com (F2P) — Sat, 04 Jun 2016 16:49:00 +0000

Other menstrual-type cramps can be caused by conditions of the reproductive tract, such as the following:

    Endometriosis -- uterine tissue that appears outside the uterus
    Fibroids and adenomyosis -- noncancerous (benign) growths in the uterus
    Infections in the reproductive organs
    Abnormal pregnancy, such as an ectopic pregnancy (pregnancy in the tubes, outside the uterus)
    IUD (intra-uterine device) used for birth control
    Ovarian cyst
    Narrow cervix

If a woman has had menstrual pain ever since her periods started, the condition is classified as primary dysmenorrhea. If a physical condition such as pelvic inflammatory disease or endometriosis has developed and is causing the pain, this is called secondary dysmenorrhea. Once the medical condition is treated, the menstrual pain usually goes away.

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Tips

Supplement Yourself

Take calcium and magnesium supplements throughout the month, as these nutrients work in concert to aid muscle relaxation. You should aim for a total of about 1000mg of calcium daily, and up to 500mg of magnesium daily. If you experience loose stools, reduce the dose. (Note: we recommend you use calcium citrate, because it tends to be more easily absorbed into the system than calcium carbonate.)

Cinnamon

Cinnamon has antispasmodic, anticlotting and anti-inflammatory properties that can relieve menstrual pain. Plus, cinnamon is an excellent source of dietary fiber, calcium, iron and manganese.

Make cinnamon tea by stirring one-fourth teaspoon of cinnamon powder into a cup of hot water. Let it sit for up to five minutes, add a little honey and then sip it slowly. Drink two to three cups of cinnamon tea one to two days before your period starts to prevent cramps.
Add one-half teaspoon of cinnamon powder and one tablespoon of honey to a glass of warm water. Drink it three times during the first day of your period to relieve pain.

Chamomile Tea

Chamomile tea has anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties that help relax the uterus and ease the spasmodic contractions that cause pain during menstruation.

Bring one cup of water to a boil. Pour it into a cup containing a chamomile tea bag.
Cover and let it steep for 10 to 15 minutes.
Squeeze out the tea bag and add some lemon juice or honey as desired.
Drink at least two cups of chamomile tea a day during the week before your period.

you know vitamin c

noreply@blogger.com (F2P) — Fri, 03 Jun 2016 17:10:00 +0000

Fruits and vegetables are the best sources of vitamin C. You can get recommended amounts of vitamin C by eating a variety of foods including the following:

Citrus fruits (such as oranges and grapefruit) and their juices, as well as red and green pepper and kiwifruit, which have a lot of vitamin C.
Other fruits and vegetables—such as broccoli, strawberries, cantaloupe, baked potatoes, and tomatoes—which also have vitamin C.
Some foods and beverages that are fortified with vitamin C. To find out if vitamin C has been added to a food product, check the product labels.

The vitamin C content of food may be reduced by prolonged storage and by cooking. Steaming or microwaving may lessen cooking losses. Fortunately, many of the best food sources of vitamin C, such as fruits and vegetables, are usually eaten raw.

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Function

Vitamin C is needed for the growth and repair of tissues in all parts of your body. It is used to:

Form an important protein used to make skin, tendons, ligaments, and blood vessels
Heal wounds and form scar tissue
Repair and maintain cartilage, bones, and teeth
Aid in the absorption of iron

Vitamin C is one of many antioxidants. Antioxidants are nutrients that block some of the damage caused by free radicals.

Free radicals are made when your body breaks down food or when you are exposed to tobacco smoke or radiation.
The buildup of free radicals over time is largely responsible for the aging process.
Free radicals may play a role in cancer, heart disease, and conditions like arthritis.

The body is not able to make vitamin C on its own, and it does not store vitamin C. It is therefore important to include plenty of vitamin C-containing foods in your daily diet.
For many years, vitamin C has been a popular remedy for the common cold.

Research shows that for most people, vitamin C supplements or vitamin C-rich foods do not reduce the risk of getting the common cold.
However, people who take vitamin C supplements regularly might have slightly shorter colds or somewhat milder symptoms.
Taking a vitamin C supplement after a cold starts does not appear to be helpful.

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What happens if I don't get enough vitamin C ????????????????????
Vitamin C deficiency is rare in the United States and Canada. People who get little or no vitamin C (below about 10 mg per day) for many weeks can get scurvy. Scurvy causes fatigue, inflammation of the gums, small red or purple spots on the skin, joint pain, poor wound healing, and corkscrew hairs. Additional signs of scurvy include depression as well as swollen, bleeding gums and loosening or loss of teeth. People with scurvy can also develop anemia. Scurvy is fatal if it is not treated.

Tips to avoid zika virus

noreply@blogger.com (F2P) — Fri, 03 Jun 2016 14:54:00 +0000

When in areas with Zika and other diseases spread by mosquitoes, take the following steps:
    Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants.
    Stay in places with air conditioning and window and door screens to keep mosquitoes outside.
    Take steps to control mosquitoes inside and outside your home.
    Sleep under a mosquito bed net if you are overseas or outside and are not able to protect yourself from mosquito bites.
    Use Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-registered insect repellents with one of the following active ingredients: DEET, picaridin, IR3535, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or para-menthane-diol. Choosing an EPA-registered repellent ensures the EPA has evaluated the product for effectiveness. When used as directed, EPA-registered insect repellents are proven safe and effective, even for pregnant and breast-feeding women.
        Always follow the product label instructions.
        Reapply insect repellent as directed.
        Do not spray repellent on the skin under clothing.
        If you are also using sunscreen, apply sunscreen before applying insect repellent.

To protect your child from mosquito bites:
        Do not use insect repellent on babies younger than 2 months old.
        Do not use products containing oil of lemon eucalyptus or para-menthane-diol on children younger than 3 years old.
        Dress your child in clothing that covers arms and legs.
        Cover crib, stroller, and baby carrier with mosquito netting.
        Do not apply insect repellent onto a child’s hands, eyes, mouth, and cut or irritated skin.

Adults: Spray insect repellent onto your hands and then apply to a child’s face.
Treat clothing and gear with permethrin or purchase permethrin-treated items.
Treated clothing remains protective after multiple washings. See product information to learn how long the protection will last.
If treating items yourself, follow the product instructions carefully.
Do NOT use permethrin products directly on skin. They are intended to treat clothing.

Even if they do not feel sick, travelers returning to the United States from an area with Zika should take steps to prevent mosquito bites for 3 weeks so they do not spread Zika to mosquitoes that could spread the virus to other people.

Important

No vaccine exists to prevent Zika virus disease (Zika).
Prevent Zika by avoiding mosquito bites (see below).
Mosquitoes that spread Zika virus bite mostly during the daytime.
Mosquitoes that spread Zika virus also spread dengue and chikungunya viruses.

yes diet is useful for health

noreply@blogger.com (F2P) — Fri, 03 Jun 2016 14:21:00 +0000

A balanced diet is important because your organs and tissues need proper nutrition to work effectively. Without good nutrition, your body is more prone to disease, infection, fatigue, and poor performance. Children with a poor diet run the risk of growth and developmental problems and poor academic performance. Bad eating habits can persist for the rest of their lives.

Rising levels of obesity and diabetes in America are prime examples of the effects of a poor diet and a lack of exercise. The USDA reports that four of the top 10 leading causes of death in the United States are directly influenced by diet. These are:

- heart disease
- cancer
- stroke
- diabetes

Compare sodium in foods: Use the Nutrition Facts label to choose lower sodium versions of foods like soup, bread, and frozen meals. Select canned foods labeled "low sodium," "reduced sodium," or "no salt added."

Eat some seafood: Seafood includes fish (such as salmon, tuna, and trout) and shellfish (such as crab, mussels, and oysters). Seafood has protein, minerals, and omega-3 fatty acids (heart-healthy fat). Adults should try to eat at least eight ounces a week of a variety of seafood. Children can eat smaller amounts of seafood, too.

Drink water instead of sugary drinks: Cut calories by drinking water or unsweetened beverages. Soda, energy drinks, and sports drinks are a major source of added sugar and calories in American diets. Try adding a slice of lemon, lime, or watermelon or a splash of 100% juice to your glass of water if you want some flavor.

Make half your plate fruits and vegetables: Choose red, orange, and dark-green vegetables like tomatoes, sweet potatoes, and broccoli, along with other vegetables for your meals. Add fruit to meals as part of main or side dishes or as dessert. The more colorful you make your plate, the more likely you are to get the vitamins, minerals, and fiber your body needs to be healthy.