Bread Mold Growth

Bread mold is the most common type of fungus that grows on bread of any kind. Although a great source for many industrial uses, bread mold can have severe effects on the human body.

Penicillin is the first antibiotic medication made from the fungus Penicillium chrysogenum and the credit for this discovery goes to Alexander Fleming, the great scientist.



Have you ever opened a loaf of bread that was lying in the kitchen for a long time and seen some patches of dark-colored mold on it? What happens when you leave the bread open for some more time? The mold spreads quickly and the entire bread turns into a green or black color and appears fuzzy. Bread mold is a simple fungus that takes food and nutrients from the bread and damages the bread surface. Although growth of this mold makes the bread land in the trash bin, bread mold can be of great industrial use.

Mold growing on the bread can be microscopic fungi belonging to different species like Penicillium, Rhizopus, Aspergillus, Monascus and Fusarum. They are of different shapes and colors depending on the species. Rhizopus stolonifer is the most common and fast growing bread mold. It is also known as black mold as it appears dark green or black in color. It causes rotting of some fruits and some infections in humans.

Growth of Bread Mold

Microscopic parts of the bread mold fungi, known as spores, are present in the air all around us. They can be found on any surface and in any condition. They appear on the surface of bread that may be left open in normal conditions, say on the kitchen countertop. These spores germinate to form hyphae that begin to grow on the bread surface absorbing all the moisture and nutrients from the bread. With adequate nutrients from the bread they develop into mature fungi that consists of rhizoids. These rhizoids penetrate into the bread surface and hold the fungus to the organic material. It then develops fruiting structures known as sporangium, where small spores grow and are released in the surrounding areas.

Contributing Factors

Bread mold growth rate depends on several factors, temperature being the most important one. The growth rate of mildew would be slowed down, especially if the bread is kept in the refrigerator. It is observed that most molds thrive in temperatures above 70° F, and the low temperatures in the refrigerator are unfavorable for bread mold. Putting the bread slice in the freezer will stop the growth of mold completely as the temperatures in the freezer are way below the favorable temperature. As bread mold is a living organism, it requires moisture and oxygen to grow. The moisture trapped in the bag is absorbed by the fungus and it grows at a faster rate. However, as mold is a type of fungi and not a plant, bread mold does not require light for its growth.

Experiment

Things Required:
Fresh bakery bread
Cotton swab
Dropper
Water
Re-sealable plastic bag
Adhesive tape
Empty milk carton
Disposable gloves
Procedure:
Collect some dust from the ground with a small cotton swab.
Rub the cotton swab on a slice of fresh bakery bread.
With the help of a dropper, put 5 to 6 drops of water on the bread slice.
Place the bread in the plastic bag and seal it.
Now place this sealed plastic bag containing the bread slice in an empty milk carton.
Seal the carton by using adhesive tape.
Leave the carton undisturbed for two days.
What do you observe on opening the packet after two days? The bread slice is completely covered with fuzzy black or greenish spots. Dust that was put on the bread carried spores to the bread which led to the mold growth on it.

Prevention
Moisture contributes to the faster growth of mold. Hence, do not allow your bread to turn moist. It is always better to preserve the bread that is brought from the store, in its original packaging bag.
If you are making bread at home, use ingredients that contain oils, like butter, eggs, milk, etc. This will allow the bread to stay fresh for longer period.
Breadbasket is another option for storing bread for a long time. A variety of breadbaskets made of wood, clay and metal are best for bread storage as they can keep your bread dry and moisture free.
Never store the bread at room temperature or in the refrigerator for extended period. Freezing will be helpful if prolonged storage is required.
To preserve the bread in summer needs some extra efforts. Store the bread in a plastic airtight container and if you have homemade or an unsliced bread loaf, wrap it in a wax paper and keep in a plastic container with a tight-fitting lid.
Lastly, make it a point to consume bread or other similar foods as fresh as possible. If you find mold growth appearing on the food, do not attempt to eat it all or in parts and dispose it off immediately.
Bread molds can be infectious and hence you should avoid touching it with bare hands. Also, molds release organic compounds like benzene and acetone that are responsible for causing headaches, dizziness and nausea. It is not necessary to be allergic to molds, anyone can react to them very easily. Take Care!

Warning Signs of Brain Tumor

A brain tumor is an abnormal growth or a mass of tissue that develops within the brain due to abnormal and uncontrolled cell division. Headaches, nausea, vomiting, seizures, vision changes, hearing problems, behavioral changes, etc., are some of the common warning signs of brain tumors. The following write-up provides information on the signs that may be exhibited by a person who is affected by this medical condition.

The human brain is a complex organ that controls a number of vital bodily processes that are essential for proper functioning of the human body. A tumor or an abnormal growth could develop in the brain due to uncontrolled division of cells. The tumor is referred to as primary when it begins in the brain. Secondary or metastatic brain tumors are the tumors that spread to the brain from other parts of the body such as the lung, kidney, breast, colon, or the skin.

Tumors could be benign or malignant. The benign (non-cancerous) tumors are slow-growing, and don't usually spread to the other parts of the body. More often than not, these can be easily removed through surgery. The malignant (cancerous) tumors not only grow faster, but can also spread to the surrounding tissue. These could even be life-threatening in nature. It is to be noted that even the benign tumors can cause damage to the brain under certain circumstances. A big, benign tumor can exert pressure on the brain tissue, thereby causing damage to the brain.

Common Warning Signs and Symptoms of a Brain Tumor

Primary brain tumors have been categorized into more than 100 types, depending on the type of the cells that are affected or the part of the brain where the tumor originated. Astrocytoma, brain stem glioma, ependymoma, neuroblastoma, oligodendroglioma, medulloblastoma, meningioma, schwannoma, craniopharyngioma, germinoma, pineocytoma, and pineoblastoma are some of the types of brain tumors. Brain tumors can cause a host of distressing symptoms. The symptoms that may be experienced by an affected individual would depend upon the location, size, and type of the tumor. The most common warning signs of brain tumor include:

► Headaches
► Nausea and vomiting
► Mood changes
► Memory problems
► Seizures
► Tingling or numbness in the arms or legs
► Vision problems
► Problems associated with hearing or speech
► Problems with balancing or walking


Symptoms Caused by Increased Intracranial Pressure
The development of a brain tumor often gives rise to an increase in the intracranial pressure, which refers to the pressure within the skull. This could give rise to symptoms such as:

► Seizures
► Vomiting
► Nausea
► Headache
► Vision problems
► Sleepiness

Symptoms Based on the Location of the Tumor

The position of the tumor can also cause certain specific symptoms, as each part of the brain is responsible for controlling certain functions. When the tumor damages a part of the brain, then it affects the functional ability of the specific physiological processes which that particular part of the brain controls. Different parts of the brain are associated with varied functions, and the symptoms and signs of a brain tumor would therefore vary, depending on the location of the tumor.

Tumor in the Frontal Lobe
The cerebral cortex is composed of the frontal lobe, parietal lobe, temporal lobe, or the occipital lobe. The frontal lobe is associated with cognitive planning, reasoning, problem-solving, judging, emotions, parts of speech, and movement. The presence of a tumor in the frontal lobe is most likely to cause symptoms such as:

► Personality or behavioral changes
► Impairment of cognitive function (impaired judgment)
► Impaired sense of smell
► Weakness on one side of the body


Tumor in the Parietal Lobe
The parietal lobe is associated with the recognition of sensation of touch, spatial orientation, speech, etc. The presence of a tumor in this region of the brain would give rise to symptoms such as:

► Difficulty in understanding speech
► Difficulty in writing
► Problems with reading and/or writing


Tumor in the Temporal Lobe
The temporal lobe is mainly associated with language, memory, and hearing. It is associated with auditory and visual perception. If a tumor develops in the temporal lobe, the affected individual is likely to experience symptoms such as:

► Memory impairment
► Speech difficulties
► Seizures


Tumor in the Occipital Lobe
The occipital lobe is responsible for the processing of visual information. The development of a tumor in this region is likely to cause symptoms such as:

► Partial or complete loss of vision in one or both eyes
► Seizures


Other areas wherein a tumor may develop include the cerebellum, brain stem, meninges, or the pituitary gland.

Tumor in the Cerebellum
The cerebellum is a part of the brain that is associated with coordination and balance. If a tumor develops in this region, the affected individual is likely to experience symptoms such as:

► Poor coordination
► Speech problems
► Involuntary movement of the eyeballs
► Nausea and/or dizziness
► Problems with balance


Tumor in the Brain Stem
The brain is connected to the spinal cord by the brain stem. The brain stem is composed of the medulla oblongata, pons, and the midbrain. It contains several control centers that play a vital role in facilitating body functions. The development of a brain stem glioma or tumor would give rise to symptoms such as:

► Headaches
► Difficulty in balance or coordination
► Speech problems
► Difficulty in swallowing
► Drooping of the upper eyelid
► Double vision
► Muscle weakness
► Cranial nerve palsy


Tumor in the Meninges
Meninges refer to the three membranes that cover the brain and the spinal cord. A tumor that arises from any of these membranes is referred to as a meningioma. Small meningiomas may remain asymptomatic, but large ones are likely to cause symptoms such as:

► Headaches
► Vision problems
► Paralysis affecting one leg (when the tumor lies within the lobes of the brain)
► Mood changes and/or paralysis on one side (when the tumor lies in the frontal lobe)
► Coordination problems and memory-related problems (when the tumor lies in the occipital lobe)
► Difficulty in reading and writing (when the tumor is in the parietal lobe)


Tumor in the Pituitary Gland
The pituitary gland is an endocrine gland which is located at the base of the brain. When a tumor forms in the pituitary gland, it can affect the production of hormones that are necessary for the proper functioning of the body. It could give rise to symptoms such as:

► Hormonal imbalance
► Tunnel vision when the tumor exerts pressure on the nerves involved with vision
► Unexplained weight loss or gain
► Lethargy
► Mood swings
► Infertility
► High blood pressure
► Diabetes

If medical assistance is not sought on time, the tumor could cause severe brain damage. It could even prove to be life-threatening. It is therefore essential to have a basic idea about brain tumor warning signs. If this condition is accurately diagnosed in the initial stages, the tumor can be removed through surgery in some cases, and other treatment options such as radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted drug therapy, etc., can also help to alleviate the symptoms. Later stages are very difficult to control, so medical help must be sought if a person has been exhibiting any of the aforementioned warning signs.

Scorpio Man in Love

A Scorpio man, when in love with you, is loving, passionate and intense. If you are ready to match up to his intensity, he can be a wonderful partner in a relationship. Here are some interesting aspects about his nature in a love relationship, and also tips to date him.

Identifying a Scorpio man in a crowd is simple. For one, you simply cannot ignore his gaze. He will appear calm and confident. You will be attracted to his mystical aura like a magnet. But, before forming a relationship with this water sign, there are a few things you need to be aware of. For the basics, people born in between October 24th - November 22nd belong to this eight zodiac sign. It is one of the four fixed signs (the others being Leo, Taurus, Aquarius).

Scorpio Traits

Dissecting the true nature of this man is next to impossible. However, there are a few traits that are commonly found in Scorpios.

A Scorpio always appears calm and composed on the surface. But, look inside, and you will find that he is passionate about everything in his life. Scorpios are a mixture of intellect, emotions and philosophy. But, at the same time, he is very generous and loves to live his life luxuriously and to the fullest.

A Scorpio feels very strongly about everything. There is nothing lukewarm about this sign.

Deep inside, Scorpios are very sensitive by nature. But, they hate being vulnerable, and hence, do not trust people easily. You will know of his true emotions and feelings only when he trusts you.

Scorpio men are mysterious and hence, people are attracted to them. But, they are very selective in choosing their partners and have really high standards. They may indulge in flings easily, but will commit to a lifelong relationship only with the right woman.

Scorpio Man in a Love Relationship

Scorpios want to be the best, have the best, and hence, will always look for the best. He usually falls for a woman who is intelligent, adventurous, talented, sporty, independent, passionate about something, emotional and understanding; but willing to let him take the lead. With the right woman, a Scorpio man will be the most romantic and ardent lover any woman can have.

► Intense
Scorpio is considered as one of the most sensual signs of the zodiac. A lot is spoken about Scorpios and their sensuality. Lovemaking with a Scorpio is often passionate and lustful. You may simply be amazed by his sensual nature and unmatched intensity.

A Scorpio male in love is the most romantic, but, demanding partner.

► Trustworthy
Although popular and notorious for being passionate, a Scorpio man is rarely promiscuous. If he is really into you and serious about having a happy future, he will be a very trustworthy and loyal partner. He may stray only when he feels unloved, ignored or henpecked. Although it is easy to seduce a Scorpio man, he will appreciate a woman who is warm and sensitive to him.

► Demanding
As mentioned above, a love relationship with a Scorpio man is intense and extreme. He will demand affection and reassurance of your love for him. He also expects his woman to be faithful and loyal to him. As long as he has the reins and does not feel threatened, he will happily allow you to pursue your interests. Being trustworthy, caring and understanding about his needs is the only way to reach his heart and have a long-term relationship with him. Also note that a Scorpio is as demanding sexually as he is emotionally.

A Scorpio man does not fall in love easily.

► Emotional
Beneath his cool and composed nature, a Scorpio is intensely emotional and moody. He has immense self-control and tries to conceal his true emotions. You need to be considerate and understand his mood swings. Your Scorpio man will try to control his negative emotions as he doesn't want to lose you. You can trust and depend on him to do the right things at the right time.

► Possessive
The Scorpio man is extremely possessive and suspicious. He also has a curious nature and will not hesitate in questioning you about anything. Remember that a Scorpio, more often than not, has an ability to look through lies and prevarications. He is also very jealous and can be primitive if his temper is aroused. He will want his woman to be loving, caring, supportive and totally committed. If you have a flighty and flirtatious nature, then maybe he is not a good match for you.

Dark Yellow Urine Causes

The natural color of urine is pale yellow, however, it can become dark yellow, brown, or reddish in color, due to a number of factors like dehydration, and the intake of certain foods and medications.

Urine is the liquid excretory product that contains water and water-soluble waste compounds, generated in the metabolic processes taking place within the living cells. The water-soluble waste material found in urine are mainly nitrogenous products like urea, uric acid, and creatinine. Some hormones, enzymes, and mineral salts can also be found in the urine. Urine is basically a transparent, colorless or pale yellow colored liquid, and is slightly acidic in nature. It's color may fluctuate a little from time to time, and mostly is not a cause for worry.

The characteristic straw or pale yellow color of urine is imparted by the pigment - urochrome. Any change in the color of the urine from pale yellow to dark yellow can be caused due to several factors. We will now have a look at the various causes and related symptoms for this condition.

Causes of Dark Yellow Urine

The color of urine can sometimes serve as an important health indicator. Changes in urine color can be caused by several conditions, ranging from inadequate fluid intake and consumption of some particular foods, to certain serious diseases.

Dehydration
Urine that is dark yellow in color is often a sign that one is dehydrated, or not drinking enough water. This can also happen when an individual sweats a lot, and does not replenish the lost water. Other important factors that can lead to dehydration are excessive vomiting and diarrhea. Due to dehydration, the urine becomes concentrated with nitrogenous waste material, and transforms from a colorless liquid to a dark yellow colored one. A high concentration of nitrogenous waste can give urine a peculiar odor, along with changing its color.

Medications and Supplements
Taking vitamin B-complex supplements can give the urine a dark or bright yellow color. B-complex vitamins are water-soluble vitamins, and hence, any excess amount that cannot be utilized by the body is excreted in the urine. Medications like quinine and quinine derivatives, rifampin, warfarin, nitrofurantoin, and sulfamethoxazole can impart a dark yellow or orange color to the urine too. One can also pass dark urine if he or she has recently used laxatives.

Consumption of Certain Foods
Another common reason behind temporary changes in urine color is the consumption of certain food items. For example, consumption of asparagus can make the urine dark yellow or greenish. Excessive consumption of foods rich in B vitamins, carotene and vitamin C, can also impart a bright to dark yellow color to the urine. On the other hand, consuming a large amount of beets can make the urine reddish-purple in color, while the consumption of blackberries and rhubarb can give it a red tinge.

Diseases and Disorders
Persistent yellow coloration of the urine can be caused by jaundice. Along with urine, jaundice can impart a yellow color to the skin and the sclera of the eyes as well. This change in color is brought about by the accumulation of bilirubin in the blood, which is a waste produced during the breakdown of old red blood cells. Under normal circumstances, the liver removes bilirubin from the blood, where it is combined with bile. This entire process can get disrupted when an infection accelerates the rate at which the red blood cells are broken down, or when the liver itself gets damaged due to an infection or exposure to certain substances.

An obstruction in the bile duct system can also cause jaundice by impairing the movement of bile in the digestive system. Infections of the liver such as hepatitis A, B and C, glandular fever, and leptospirosis, as well as an overdose of paracetamol, liver cirrhosis, autoimmune hepatitis, and liver cancer, can cause jaundice by damaging the liver. Diseases like malaria, sickle cell anemia, thalassaemia, Gilbert's syndrome, etc., can cause jaundice too. Conditions that can obstruct the movement of bile, and thereby cause jaundice include the formation of gallstones, pancreatitis, cholangitis, and cancer of the bile duct and pancreas.

Hemolytic anemia is another condition that can cause the urine to become dark brown or yellow in color. This condition is caused by the premature breakdown of the red blood cells, combined with the inability of the bone marrow cells to speed up their production to compensate this loss. This can result in a decrease of the number of red blood cells in the body. On the other hand, the increased breakdown of the red blood cells can raise the level of bilirubin in the blood, and cause jaundice.

Other Changes in Urine Coloration

Apart from a dark yellow color, the urine can turn orange, brown and greenish, due to several other underlying conditions.
The urine may turn dark reddish-brown due to liver diseases like hepatitis and melanoma. It can be an indicator of copper poisoning as well.
Smoky brown, and red or pink coloration of the urine can be caused by the consumption of foods like beet, fava beans, and blackberries.
Blue or green urine can be associated with certain colors used in food and medicines such as methylene blue. Urinary tract infections and intake of medications like amitriptyline, indomethacin, and doxorubicin, can produce blue- or green-colored urine too.
Blue urine can be a symptom of a bacterial infection and 'familial hypercalcemia', which is an inherited condition.
Muddy/cloudy and murky urine, along with a bad smell, typically indicates a urinary tract infection.
Red or pink urine may indicate the presence of blood in the urine, which commonly occurs due to an infection caused by kidney stones.

Associated Symptoms

Dark yellow urine may not be accompanied by any other symptom, if it is not caused by an underlying disease or disorder.
If it is caused by an infection of the urinary tract, one can smell a strong and offensive odor.
One may experience the tendency to urinate frequently, and a burning sensation while urinating.
An infection can also produce fever and abdominal pain in some individuals.

Before coming to any conclusion regarding the changes in urine color, it is very important to pay attention to the food that has been consumed recently, as well as the amount of fluid intake. This is because, temporary abnormal coloration of urine is commonly caused by the consumption of certain foods, and dehydration. Water plays a key role in draining the impurities out of the body through the urine. But if your urine is dark yellow for a considerable period of time, and there is also a bad odor, then be sure to seek medical attention.

A physician would carry out a proper study about the symptoms, and the medical history of the patient, to diagnose the condition. Several tests and examinations like a blood test, liver function test, examination of urine sample, urinalysis, as well as ultrasound of the kidneys and the urinary bladder, may be required to identify the specific dark yellow urine causes. The results of these diagnostic tests would, in turn, determine the course of treatment.

Reduce Weight in 7 Days

It is everyone's wish to acquire that perfect shape and shed off those extra kilos. Wanting instant results after a workout or after day one of your diet is a very common thing that each of us desire. So, here are a few diet plans for those of us, who are in the marathon to lose weight. Seven dedicated days is all it will take you!

Our laptops are advanced, our phones are faster, and so are the food deliveries. With all these advancements, man is becoming more and more impatient. Everything needs to be quick and effective. So, why should the "D World" be left behind in the race? Why shouldn't you see immediate results when it comes to achieving a desirable body? Now that "thin is in", everyone is looking for the fastest possible way to shed those few extra pounds. Newer and better ways are making their way in the world of dieting every day. If one diet claims to help you lose 20 pounds in a day, another claims to make you skinny in merely 3 days!

Although such fad diets show only temporary results, they are no doubt a very good way to look your best for an upcoming party or wedding. So, if 7 days is all you've got on your hands, here is how to reduce weight in 7 days along with important instructions on how to get the best results.

Diet Plan 1 -- 1400 Diet Plan

Day 1 »

Breakfast: 1 cup skim milk, 1 scrambled egg, 2 tablespoons prepared salsa, 1 corn tortilla, 3/4 cup grapefruit
Lunch: Lemon chicken, 1 cup brown rice
Snack: 6 ounces carrot sticks, 1/4 cup salsa
Dinner: 1/2 cup cooked brown rice, seared scallops with brandied leeks and mushrooms, 1 cup steamed cauliflower, 1 cup grapes

Day 2 »

Breakfast: 1 cup skim milk, 1 cup Cheerios cereal, 1 sweet lime
Lunch: 1 cup skim milk, 1 whole-wheat bread, salmon salad, crispy potatoes
Dinner: Barbecue pulled chicken, 1 cup skim milk, 3/4 cup steamed green beans, 1/2 cup cooked brown rice, 1 peach (medium)
Snack: Blueberry ice pops

Day 3 »

Breakfast: 1 cup skim milk, egg and salmon sandwich, 1 plum
Lunch: Shrimp and saffron rice, whole-wheat bread
Snack: 8 ounces nonfat lemon yogurt, sweetened with low-calorie sweetener
Dinner: Cauliflower and couscous pilaf, mustard-maple pork tenderloin, 1 cup grapes, 3/4 cup cooked carrots

Day 4 »

Breakfast: 1 tablespoon creamy peanut butter, 1 cup skim milk, 1 tablespoon sugar-free jam, 1 whole-wheat English muffin
Lunch: 1 veggie burger, cucumber and black-eyed pea salad, 1 apricot, 1 whole-wheat roll
Snack: 1 cup popcorn
Dinner: 2/3 cup cooked brown rice, 1 cup steamed spinach

Day 5 »

Breakfast: 1 cup skim milk, 2/3 cup hot oatmeal, 1 tablespoon walnuts, 1 ounce dry fruits
Lunch: 1 cup skim milk, beef stew, 1 whole-wheat pita bread, small, 1 cup watermelon
Snack: 1 apple
Dinner: 1 cup salad, low-calorie salad dressing, 1/2 cup steamed red cabbage, 1 peach

Day 6 »

Breakfast: 1 cup skim milk, 1 banana, 1 cup cornflakes
Lunch: 1 cup tossed salad, salad dressing or vinegar, chicken stir-fry, 1 cup honeydew melon, cooked couscous 1/2 cup
Snack: 1 ounce whole-wheat pretzel
Dinner: 1 cup skim milk, chicken breasts, 1 nectarine, 1/2 cup quinoa

Day 7 »

Breakfast: 1 cup skim milk, 1/2 cup blueberries, 1 whole-wheat muffin, 1 tbsp. peanut butter (unsalted)
Lunch: 1 cup skim milk, sweet potato-turkey hash, 1 cup tossed salad mix, 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce, 1 tablespoon low-calorie Caesar salad dressing
Snack: 1 Kiwi
Dinner: 1/2 cup brown rice, roasted sprouts and shallots, tuna steaks, 1/2 cup mango

Too Much Protein in Urine

Medical conditions ranging from fever, dehydration, and stress, to diseases like renal failure, chronic kidney diseases, and glomerulonephritis can cause too much protein in the urine. Find out more about this condition with the help of this article.

Proteinuria and albuminuria are the medical terms used to signify the condition, where there is an excess amount of protein in the urine. The protein that is mainly found in the urine is albumin, and this is the reason why proteinuria is also known as albuminuria. Kidneys are the main filtering organs of our body, and they remove waste products and excess chemicals from the blood, but retain what is important for the body.

The protein molecules are generally too large to pass through the glomeruli (singular glomerulus) of the kidneys. So, a prolonged case of proteinuria can indicate a problem with the filtering system of the body. Several medical conditions can adversely affect the filtering capacity of the kidneys and give rise to proteinuria. Presence of a small amount of protein in the urine is, however, not an alarming condition.

Go through the various causes and related symptoms for this condition, and its treatment options.

Types of Proteinuria

There are mainly three types of proteinuria, known as transient or intermittent proteinuria, orthostatic proteinuria, and persistent proteinuria.

Transient Proteinuria: Transient proteinuria refers to a temporary rise in the level of protein in the urine, and is usually not caused by any underlying kidney disease. Transient proteinuria is usually benign, and resolves on its own without any medical intervention.

Orthostatic Proteinuria: This type of proteinuria is mostly found among tall and thin adolescents, and young adults. In this condition, more protein is excreted into the urine when the affected individual is in the upright position.

Persistent Proteinuria: Persistent proteinuria is generally caused by certain underlying medical conditions, more commonly diseases of the kidney, heart, and the blood vessels.

Causes of Proteinuria

Causes of Temporary Proteinuria
There are several factors that can cause the level of protein in the urine to increase temporarily. These include:
✦ Exposure to extreme cold
✦ Fever
✦ Strenuous exercise
✦ Stress
✦ Heat exposure
✦ Dehydration

Causes of Orthostatoc Proteinuria
The exact cause of this condition is not clearly known.

Causes of Persistent Proteinuria
Proteinuria is often regarded as a sign that the glomeruli of the kidneys are affected by a disease or an infection. Too much protein in the urine can also be a sign of a disease affecting the entire kidney, and certain other medical conditions. Given below are some of the most common medical conditions that can cause the protein level in the urine to rise significantly.
High blood pressure or hypertension is a leading cause of kidney failure. Hypertension puts more pressure on the heart, and damages the blood vessels of the body, including the blood vessels of the kidneys. This can impair the filtering capacity of the kidneys and cause proteinuria.
Diabetes is another medical condition that can impair the normal functions of the kidneys, and thereby increase the level of protein in the urine. Persistently high blood sugar levels can increase the workload of the kidneys, which eventually can damage them.
Glomerulonephritis refers to inflammation of the glomeruli of the kidneys, which are concerned with eliminating wastes, excess fluid, and electrolytes from the bloodstream. Glomerulonephritis can be caused by many factors, including bacterial and viral infections, diabetic kidney disease, high blood pressure, and lupus.
Preeclampsia is the condition where a pregnant woman develops high blood pressure, and protein is detected in her urine after 20 weeks of pregnancy. Preeclampsia is a serious condition, that can lead to life-threatening complications for the mother and the baby, if not treated on time.
Amyloidosis is another condition which can increase the level of protein in the urine. This condition is characterized by the formation of abnormal proteins, known as, amyloid proteins, which can get deposited in the different organs of the body. An accumulation of these proteins in the kidneys can cause extensive damage, and impair the normal kidney functions.
Chronic kidney disease can also cause proteinuria, as this condition is characterized by a gradual deterioration of kidney functions.
In addition to the above mentioned medical conditions, a high level of protein in the urine can also be a sign of heart disease, rheumatoid arthritis, multiple myeloma, lupus, and infections of the kidney and urinary tract.
Sometimes, excessive consumption of protein-rich foods can increase the level of protein in the blood. The extra protein that cannot be absorbed and utilized by the body is then expelled by the kidneys in the urine. This is usually noticed when a person consumes protein supplements or has excess of meat or fish. Apart from causing excess protein in the urine, over-consumption of protein-rich foods can increase the workload of the kidneys, and thus raise the risk of kidney diseases.

Who Discovered America?

America, also known as the New World is claimed to have been discovered by many people at many times. However, one can't say for sure who discovered America first. Therefore, it is worth going through the information given below which provides some interesting insights on the topic.

Quick Fact!
Christopher Columbus commandeered the three ships Nina, Santa Maria and Pinta during his voyage which started off from Palos, Spain on August 3, 1492.

America had often been discovered before Columbus, but it had always been hushed up. The above line by famous Irish novelist, Oscar Wilde makes an important point about discovery of America. The claims about discoveries hold less significance in today's world where, even scientific theories of Darwin are being challenged. Questions like who discovered what might be important, only from the point of maintaining records. However, the facts and records available to us are likened to links of broke chains, used for reaching a consensus on discoveries.

Who Discovered America First?
It is a commonly held belief that Christopher Columbus discovered America. This fact however, can neither be ruled out nor accepted blindly. In October, 1492, Columbus reached the shores of America when he was in search of India. There are few historians who believe that it was not America's mainland that Columbus reached in 1492. The place was actually an island of Bahamas. Columbus returned to Spain after this voyage. Later on in 1497, Amerigo Vespucci, another Italian explorer claimed to have discovered America. Martin Waldseemuller was the first to name this huge land mass as America. However, one cannot say for sure that Columbus and Amerigo Vespucci were the first to discover this huge continent. The Chinese claim that they discovered America long before the voyages undertaken by Europeans sailors. So who really discovered America? Let us find more on the topic through details about voyages taken by people other than Columbus and Amerigo Vespucci.


Amerigo Vespucci
Discovery of America before Christopher Columbus
Many people had reached the continent of America before Columbus. People from Asia reached America thousands of years before Columbus and became its inhabitants.

Norse expeditions to America had begun long before 1492 AD i.e. in 986 AD. These expeditions were initiated by Bjarni Herjolfsson. It is speculated that Herjolfsson started off from Iceland and headed towards Greenland. He lost his way in a storm, after which his ship drifted southwards. Herjolfsson accidentally came across a shore with low-lying hills covered in vegetation. However, he was more interested in finding his way back to Greenland than exploring this place. Leif Ericsson who had read Bjarni Herjolfsson's official report of the voyage decided to find the New World. Ericsson is said to have reached what is today's L'Anse aux Meadows in Newfoundland, Canada with his crew of 35.

In 1963, remains of a viking-type settlement were found by archaeologists in Canada. These remains are believed to be 1000 years old. This provides a strong evidence in support of claims that America was found by Norse explorers before Columbus.

Most expeditions prior to the times of Christopher Columbus were not documented properly. The absence of any runic inscriptions in North America raises doubts about claims of Norse explorers. However, it is said that these explorers merely recounted their voyages and were not used to documenting them.

As per some records, Chinese Admiral Zheng was the first to discover America. However, these claims are not taken into consideration because none of Admiral Zheng's voyages went beyond the Indian Ocean.

The records of Asian explorers reaching the shores of North America in 499 BC have been found in documents dated 629 AD. A Buddhist monk from China named Hai-Shen is said to have reached North America. Hai-Shen reached a fabled land of Fu-Sang upon traveling to the east. Interestingly, the land of Fu-Sang described by Hai-Shen greatly resembles North America. Although these records are not considered as concrete evidence, they have opened a new window of opportunity for historians who are looking for the true discoverer of America. There are few other discoveries which support the claim that Asians reached America before Columbus. For example, Japanese swords were found in Alaska and Chinese coins were recovered from British Columbia.

John Cabot's Voyages
John Cabot (c. 1450-1499), the Italian born Giovanni Caboto, is one of the earliest explorers to have reached the shores of America. Although he was an Italian and lived in Venice till 1488, Cabot left for England in search of opportunities to become an explorer. It is said that he was inspired by voyages undertaken by Bartholomew Diaz. In May, 1497 John Cabot and his crew, under the commission of England's King Henry VII, left Bristol with a ship called Matthew. He is said to have reached North America on 24th June, 1497 and returned to Bristol on 6th August, 1497.

The details of the second voyage undertaken by Cabot in May, 1498 remain shrouded in mystery. This is because there is difference of opinion among historians on how John Cabot's second voyage ended. Cabot started off from Bristol with 5 ships and a crew of 300. One of the 5 ships was diverted to Ireland because of some problems in its functioning. There is no clarity on what happened in the later part of the voyage.


Depiction of Columbus Reaching America
Interesting Facts on Christopher Columbus
No matter what the consequences of finding the New World were, it is important that we should know more about Christopher Columbus and his attempts to find the New World. Christopher Columbus was born in c. 1435 in Genoa, Italy. He took great interest in subjects like geography, astronomy and cosmology. In those days, sailors were not able to take their ships into deeper seas because of lack of proper navigation tools. Developments in the field of navigation tools proved to be of great use in undertaking long trips into oceans. The Astrolabe was one such tool which helped in finding the sun's altitude and the ship's distance from the equator. These developments encouraged sailors to go for longer voyages that could not be undertaken earlier. Columbus reached what he believed the New World (actually the island of San Salvador) on October 12, 1492. However, discovery of this island was only the first step in the process of finding the New World.

If we set the question of discovery of America aside for sometime, it can be said that Columbus took the world into a new age of colonialism. His discovery encouraged many people to take voyages to the Americas. The events of Columbus and Amerigo Vespucci reaching this new continent offered traders with many opportunities which in turn brought economic prosperity to Europe. The resources and vast land mass of America remained unexplored till that time; therefore, the discovery by Columbus marked the beginning of a new era. The New World, as America is often referred to, was inhabited by Red Indians before the arrival of European settlers. Eventually, Europeans took over the land and started their own rule.

If we go by commonly accepted beliefs, Christopher Columbus can be credited for the discovery of America. Earlier, one had to rely on certain, specific sources of information about discoveries. However, interaction between different cultures and societies of the world have led to the discovery of many hidden truths and facts that were just hushed up till date. Therefore, the question who discovered America first, might raise a few more questions that might require us to uncover facts and truths which remain buried under thick layers of time.

Funny Friendship Quotes

Friendship is one of the best relationships that one makes in his lifetime. And just like any other relationship, it has its share of funny things to say about. Given here are some funny friendship quotes that will make you smile and think of all those friends they befit.

Friends are people in our lives that never falter, leave us, or give up on us. Their mere presence in our lives can give us the much-needed boost, strength, and self-esteem to keep going on. Without them, perhaps our lives would be pretty dull, boring, and uninteresting. Having said that, let us not forget that friendship can be pretty darn awkward at times. What with all the drama and misunderstandings. But this is one relationship that almost always stands the test of time. The quotes given below have that tinge of humor that anyone can identify with as being true about friendship.

Strep Throat in Adults

Strep throat is a common infection of the pharynx which results in soreness of the throat. Here is some information about strep throat in adults, its causes, symptoms, and treatment.

Strep throat or streptococcal pharyngitis is a bacterial infection that affects the mucous lining of the throat (pharynx), tonsils, and in some cases the voice box (larynx). Streptococcal pharyngitis is caused by the gram positive bacteria Streptococcus pyogenes belonging to the group A of streptococcus infections (abbreviated as GAS). Even though this throat infection is more common amongst kids and teens, it affects adults as well.

Streptococcal pharyngitis is a contagious infection which can be transmitted through direct contact with an infected individual. The infection usually spreads as a result of contact with mucous, saliva, contaminated toothbrush, or utensils. Kissing an infected individual, staying cooped in a poorly ventilated environment, and smoking can also cause strep throat in adults.

The throat provides a conducive environment for the causal bacteria to thrive and thus, allows for it to survive for several months without showing any symptoms. Therefore, strep throat is often unintentionally transmitted by an asymptomatic individual to others.

Symptoms of Strep Throat

The symptoms of strep throat are unlike those of the common cold or sore throat, caused by other viral infections. Symptoms such as, a runny nose, reddened eyes, sneezing, and coughing are not caused by strep throat. Notable signs of this bacterial infection are:
Sore throat
Acute pain while swallowing
Dryness of the throat
Enlarged tonsils and uvula
Exudate or threads of pus on the tonsils
Reddish spots (petechiae) on the soft or hard palate of the mouth
Swollen lymph nodes in the neck
Fever (about 101 °F)
Headache
Fatigue
Pressure in the ear and head
Abdominal pain
Diagnosis

A medical diagnosis is done based on the symptoms and medical history of the patient. A proper examination is carried out through a throat swab so as to determine the presence of the causal bacteria. A strep throat infection must be treated as soon as possible in order to avoid further complications. Apart from the basic visual examination of the throat, the following tests may also be carried out:

Rapid Antigen Detection Test (RADT)
In the antigen detection test, a sample from the tonsils or back of the throat is taken with the help of a long cotton swab and examined for the streptococcus bacterium. A negative result does not necessarily nullify the possibility of streptococcal pharyngitis. Based on the condition of the patient's throat, the doctor may prescribe an appropriate treatment for strep throat.

Throat Culture
Throat culture test is considered as the most suitable option for diagnosing strep throat infections, and is thus approved as the gold standard test. Almost similar to the RADT test, material from the throat is collected through a swab. Thereafter, this sample is cultured in a suitable medium in order to analyze the presence of disease-causing microorganisms. The sample requires time to yield accurate results and may take up to 48 hours.
Treatment

Strep throat is treated with antibiotics such as penicillin or its derivatives, that have proven to be effective against streptococcal pharyngitis. Those who are intolerant to penicillin, are prescribed antibiotics such as Azithromycin, Erythromycin, and Clarithromycin for treating this bacterial throat infection. Certain compatible pain relief medicines are also prescribed for relieving the intense throat ache.

The patient continues to remain contagious during the treatment, and must be allowed to recover completely. The patient may also be asked to wear a mask, so as to prevent airborne droplets from infecting others. It is also advisable to continue taking antibiotics as per the advice of the physician. Failure to take the complete antibiotic course increases the chances of a relapse.

The physician may also recommend home remedies for strep throat, such as saline water gargle, drinking plenty of lukewarm soup, juices, herbal tea, and avoiding spicy food. Proper rest and sleep are equally important for a speedy recovery.
Complications

Even though the symptoms of streptococcal pharyngitis gradually subside without the administration of medications, the lack of resistance causes the patient to remain contagious for several days despite having recovered. Antibiotics also help prevent the occurrence of complications, that can result from an acute strep throat infection. The following health complications can arise in case a strep throat infection is left untreated:
Ear infection (otitis media)
Glomerulonephritis (inflammation of the kidneys)
Rheumatic fever
Streptococcal toxic shock syndrome
Peritonsillar abscess (pus formation)

The best way to prevent strep throat is to maintain personal hygiene and cleanliness. Strep throat must ideally be treated within the first 24 hours from the onset of the symptoms, so as to prevent the condition from worsening.

Disclaimer: This article is for informative purposes only, and should not be substituted for the advice of a medical practitioner.

Signs and Symptoms of Sinus Infection

Sinusitis or sinus infection is a frequently diagnosed ailment, caused due to an infection or allergies. It is characterized by inflammation of the lining of the sinuses. Here is some information about the signs and symptoms of a sinus infection.

The term 'sinuses' refers to the paranasal sinuses, which are air-filled cavities, lined by the mucous membrane. They are located in and around the nose. There are four types of paranasal sinuses, viz. maxillary, frontal, ethmoid, and sphenoid. As the terms suggest, they are named after the facial bone type where they are located. The basic function of these sinuses is to moisten the nasal cavity, and warm inhaled air.

Infection and inflammation of the paranasal sinuses is termed as sinusitis. It is classified as infectious and non-infectious. The former is caused by infection of the sinuses, whereas allergies and environmental irritants cause non-infectious sinusitis. A sinus infection is further classified into acute, sub-acute, and chronic, depending upon the duration of the ailment. Acute (sudden) sinusitis lasts for less than 4 weeks, sub-acute for about 4 - 6 weeks, and chronic (long-term) sinusitis usually lasts for more than 12 weeks.

◉ Signs and Symptoms of Sinusitis ◉

The manifested symptoms of short-term infection differ slightly from the chronic one. The symptoms would vary, depending on the type of sinus that is affected. Inflammation of the paranasal sinuses causes excess secretion of mucus, which blocks the nasal passages. This results in congestion, stuffiness, and other symptoms. Following are some of the common signs and symptoms of sinus infection which can be observed in acute and chronic conditions.

Acute Sinusitis Symptoms
Nasal congestion
Thick, yellow or greenish nasal discharge
Sinus pain or facial pain
Sinus pressure or facial pressure
Mild to severe headache
Postnasal drip
Running high temperature
Vision disturbances (sphenoid sinusitis)
Loss of smell
Cough or congestion
Tender cheekbone (maxillary sinusitis)
Pain gets worse when lying down or bending forward
Chronic Sinusitis Symptoms
Chronic nasal congestion
Chronic postnasal drip
Pus in the nasal cavity
Loss of smell and taste
Cough (that worsens at night)
Sore throat
Bad breath
Low-grade headache
Pressure below eye (maxillary sinusitis)
Toothache or chronic tooth sensitivity (maxillary sinusitis)
Sinus pressure (specific to affected sinus)
Thus, pain and pressure around the face are typical signs of a sinus infection. They may worsen while bending forward, reclining, lying on back, or other head positions. The area affected by the pain is examined carefully for diagnosis of the affected sinus bone. For sinusitis triggered by an allergy, the aforementioned symptoms may be accompanied with itchy eyes, watery eyes, clear mucus, and sneezing. In severe cases, sinusitis may lead to osteomyelitis, brain infection, and meningitis. If you experience symptoms such as swelling in the forehead, confusion, vision changes, shortness of breath, severe headache, or swelling around eyes, rush to the doctor immediately.

◉ What Causes Sinus Infection? ◉

Sinus infection, alternatively referred to as sinusitis, is an inflammation of the paranasal sinuses. Very often, it is associated with an upper respiratory tract infection. Sinusitis may occur due to infection by bacteria, virus, or fungi in the paranasal sinuses. Of these, bacterial and viral infections are responsible for maximum cases of sinus inflammation. Patients having common cold often report sinusitis symptoms. In other words, sinus infection is often preceded by common cold.

Possible triggers of this discomforting condition are air pollutants, chemical irritants, other allergens, extreme climatic conditions, stress, dehydration, and excess smoking. Any form of allergy that negatively affects the functioning of the immune system may lead to swelling and inflammation of the sinuses. People having a compromised immune system and those who have suffered from a dental infection, or an injury of the nasal bones are more prone to sinusitis than others. Knowing sinusitis causes and triggers will help in preventing this annoying condition.

◉ Diagnosis and Treatment ◉

Diagnosis of sinusitis is done based on the symptoms, physical examination and medical history of the patient. Since the symptoms of sinusitis are similar to that of a common cold, the physician may conduct certain diagnostic tests such as microbial culture, endoscopic evaluation of the nasopharynx, and computed tomographic (CT) scan of the sinuses. Ultrasound may also be used for the diagnosis as it is reliable and less expensive than a CT scan. Palpation and percussion of the face also help in identifying the affected paranasal sinus. This further helps in adopting correct treatment methods.