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.

Tips to Buy an Air Hockey Table

If you're thinking of buying an air hockey table to put in your hall, consider that hall the coolest room in the neighborhood. Buying an air hockey table is, however, a somewhat tricky thing. Learn more about the right type of air hockey tables.

One of the entertaining arcade games around, has to be air hockey. There's no better way to spend those tickets than trying to beat your friend or younger brother at a game, there is no other such definitive win. And if you're trying to buy one for yourself, you're awesome! Apart from the arcade style coin-operated Super Mario Bros., I think the air hockey table should be a must have for anybody and everybody. So, in order to help you out on your buying one, here's a few thing to keep in mind when you go out into the stores or search the Internet.

The Table

You need to decide what kind of table you want to buy, depending on a few 'restrictions', if you want to look at them that way. The first one being space. Doesn't matter if you've been saving up for months, if you can't make enough space for the large table and still have enough for two people to move around it, then you can't really have fun playing. Here are the three types of air hockey tables that you will find, along with some extra types that you might like.

Basic Table
These are the ones meant for a kid's bedroom or, basically, for kids. The tables are really small, have snap-on or bolt-on parts. They may or may not have fans for the air cushion. They are easy to assemble or dismantle so they can be stored away when not in use. You can get this if you have a real space problem.

Most of these tables are around 32 inches or 40 inches to 4 feet and may have no legs (the smaller ones), just put them on an elevated surface and start playing. Another problem with these tables can be the lack of quality. Basic tables are good when you start playing on them, but they get weathered a lot faster than most of the big, quality tables. They dent faster than mid-size air hockey tables and need to be replaced faster. But on the upside, they are very cheap, anything from $50 to $250.

Mid-Range Table
Most people tend to buy the standard mid-range air hockey table. What they may not know is, there are two things to consider here - one is the size and the second is the quality. If the table has a large size and is offered for a cheaper price, that means there is a compromise on quality for a bigger table size. They will not last long and the fans are weaker than those on a better priced table.

If the table is a bit smaller than an arcade table but is costlier than the type mentioned above, it means that the quality of the table is quite good and the fans should work fine for a long time. They are quite resilient to dents, but not indestructible. They will dent and warp in time and you will find it a pain to play on them, but only after a long time and thousands of fun games. These tables will cost anywhere from $500 to just around $1000.

Arcade Size Table
If you really want to break a leg playing air hockey, nothing less than an arcade table will do. They are big, strong and last a lifetime. An arcade table is generally at 7 feet or 7.5 feet long. They are quite tedious to install and once you do, you can't move it around. One problem here is the space. As you can figure, a 7 feet long table can be hard to fit in an average sized home, but the real problem is the surface of the floor of where you're going to keep the table. These table have perfect fans meant to give the least friction possible, which means your puck will feel the tilt if the table is not perfectly horizontal. The good news is that most tables come with adjustable legs to help the table become perfectly horizontal. The other thing is, a slight tilt won't be a real bother in a game, just that seeing the puck floating to one side when you're not really playing can be a bit annoying. I mean, you'll be bugged if you just spent a truck load to get a table with a puck that moves on its own.

As far as the quality of the table is concerned, buy it from a reliable brand and remain assured of it. They look so good they will easily be the biggest jewel in your crown. An arcade air hockey table will cost you $1000 upwards and with most of them generally under $1600. Some of them may cost you around $2500, $5000 or $7000 (Barron Games QUAD AIR Redemption Air Hockey Table is for $6,995.00).

Special Tables

These tables have an extra something to 'tweak' your playing experience a little.

Boomerang
Also known as a Boom-a-Rang air hockey table, it feels like playing pinball, only there are no buzzers or knobs in there, but another person on the other half. The advantage of getting a boomerang table is the size of it. It's like cutting an entire hockey table in half and joining them up on the sides. A very fun variant of regular air hockey.

Extreme
Think you're better than regular air hockey? Try out a more 'professional' version. It's actually nothing but a regular arcade table with attachments along its center to raise an opaque screen in the center of the table. This way, you don't see where the puck is coming from, till it's in your half of the table. The advantage with it is you can always take off the screen to enjoy regular air hockey.

8 Feet Air Hockey Table
Yes, the table is 8 feet long. I really haven't tried to play on a table this big, but I think the game should be a little slower with the puck taking ages to cross the table.

The Better Air Hockey Brands

Take your pick from the following brands that offer the best air hockey tables around. Note that some of them deal mostly in arcade tables.
Dynamo
Fat Cat
Shelti
Imperial
Playcraft
Barron
ICE
They are the most credible brands around.

Extra Tips

There are a few more things to keep in mind when you buy an air hockey table.
Make sure the fans are right. The air flow through the holes is more important than the playing surface itself. A good fan in an arcade air hockey table has an air displacement rate of 350 to 400 cubic feet per minute.
Make sure if the parts that bear the most hits (the inner edges of the table and the edges of the scoring slots) are not sealed but screwed in (that is,removable). That way, if they are dented or warped, you can get replacements and just screw them in. Also, make sure that you get replacements from where you bought the table.
Look for inner walls made of thick nylon or thick aluminum. They don't dent as much as other walls and give an extra bounce for a faster game.
Make sure you're going to get extra pucks and pushers with your table.
Take care of all the things and you'll have for yourself a table that you will enjoy for quite a long time. At the end of the day, it's all about having fun when you play, whether it's for the heck of playing or to win. So just make sure you bought the right table and game on.

How to Acclimate Saltwater Fish

Fish are thought to be the easiest pets to look after. Any aquarium owner can testify, that looking after fish is not as easy as it looks. Along with feeding and cleaning the tank, there are certain steps to be followed to add new fish to an existing aquarium. Scroll below to learn how to acclimate fish from a saltwater source to your aquarium.

Acclimate - to adapt or respond in a behavioral or physiological manner to changes in the adjoining environment.

Adjusting to a new environment is never easy, especially for a fish. Fish are very delicate organisms and are affected by the temperature of the water, the amount of salt (salinity) present in the water and the acidic or pH levels of the water, amongst other factors. To understand what a fish might go through with a change in water conditions, imagine living all your life in sunny California and suddenly being dumped in Alaska. You cannot just dump a fish from one source of water to another, the fish needs to adjust to the water in your aquarium, irrespective of whether it is a freshwater or saltwater fish. Two techniques on how to acclimate saltwater fish to an aquarium are listed below.

Initial Steps
House your new saltwater fish in a separate tank or quarantine aquarium. Do not add new fish to your populated and established aquarium for at least 2 weeks.
In a quarantine tank, you can observe the new fish for signs of disease or parasites and protect your old fish from such external harm.
The acclimation procedure should be followed carefully and slowly. Be patient. Read all the steps involved before performing any action.
Never pour the water that came with the fish, either shipping water or water from the saltwater source, directly into your quarantine aquarium. Even fish from a pet store must be acclimatized.
The fish may not move or will lie flat on its side for a while. Do not panic or try to touch it. It is not dead, it just needs time to adjust to its new living habitat. Once it is acclimatized to the aquarium's water, the fish will slowly revive itself.
Turn off the lights in the aquarium. Dim the lights in the room where the aquarium is kept. Do not open the fish's shipping bag or container in a well-lit room, as the sudden light can cause trauma to the fish.
Do not place airstones in the shipping bag. This will increase the pH levels in the bag very quickly and you could end up killing the fish.
Be careful with stinging or venomous fish or any fish species that are likely to release a poisonous gas or sting. Such fish get traumatized if shifted or disturbed and they may sting or attack other fish in the bag. Try to use smaller, separate containers for their acclimation and be cautious when handling them.
After the fish have been transferred to the quarantine tank, keep the aquarium's lights off for 4 hours. A fish adjusts easier to new surroundings in low light conditions.
How to Acclimate Saltwater Fish Using a Measuring Cup
Be very slow and steady with the following steps. Do not rush with the filling and pouring out of water. This method should take at least 1 hour to complete.
Catch the shipping bag with the fish in it by the fastening clip. Gently float the bag in the aquarium for 15 minutes. Try not to move the bag, just catch it such that it will float.
After 15 minutes, while still holding the bag in the tank, cut open its top just below the clip. Now fold the open edges of the bag backwards and then inwards to form a lip.
The bag should be folded such that an air pocket is formed in the lip. It should float on the surface of the tank's water.
Using a measuring cap, add ½ cup of water to the open bag. Catch the bag as you fill it, then release it to float.
After 4 minutes, fill the bag once again with ½ cup of tank water. Keep refilling the bag after 4 minute intervals, until the bag is full.
Then gently take the bag out of the tank and tip it over a sink. Pour out half of the bag's water. Lower the bag once again into the aquarium.
Perform steps 5-7 once again, i.e., fill the bag with ½ cup of aquarium water, after 4 minute intervals, until the bag is full. Then empty out half the water from the bag.
Now float the bag on the aquarium's surface and use a net to scoop out the fish from the bag, releasing them into the aquarium.
Immediately remove the shipping bag from the tank and throw it. Do not tip the bag directly into the aquarium to release the fish. The shipping bag's water must never enter the aquarium.
How to Acclimate Saltwater Fish - Drip Method
This is a specialized acclimation technique used for extremely sensitive fish. You will need a clean, large bucket, at least 3-5 gallons deep. You will also require clear airline tubing. It should be long enough to stretch between the tank and the bucket with ease.
Place the bucket close to the aquarium, such that the tubing will reach it. The bucket should be kept at a height lower than that of the aquarium.
Depending on the amount of water in the shipping bags and the number of fish, the bucket should be of sufficient depth for the fish to swim in comfortably. Gently pour the contents of the bag, both water and fish into the bucket. Do not add any additional water from a tap or the aquarium.
Prop the bucket, tilted at a 45 degree angle, so that the fish are completely submerged. You may need to wedge or fix it in a tilted position. The water in the bucket should be such that, even as you add the fish and water from the bag, the water level is high enough for the fish to swim in.
You must set up a siphon drip between the bucket and the tank, using the tubing. The water should be siphoned from your aquarium and allowed to drip into the bucket. You will need to monitor the entire process of water flow and regulate the water as needed.
The water from the aquarium must drip slowly but steadily. It should drip at a consistent rate, for example, 2-4 drips per second. You can tie knots in the tubing or use a control valve (non-metal) to adjust the flow of water.
The volume of water in the bucket will steadily increase. When it is nearly double, you should scoop out the water with a cup and throw it. Reduce the volume by half.
Begin the drip again and let the volume double in the bucket once more. You should let the water drip and then drain it by half for 1 hour. Using a net, scoop out your fish from the bucket and release them into the aquarium.
If you need to acclimatize different aquatic species, such as invertebrates (shrimp), keep in mind that their salinity levels and pH needs vary from that of freshwater fish. The drip method is more suited for such aquatic organisms and you will need separate buckets for each species. With corals, sponges and anemones, the measuring cup method should be followed. Acclimation is a tricky but necessary process for any aquarium owner, seeking to add new fish to a tank. Remember to be patient and precise.

How to Make Homemade Zombie Costumes

Oozing flesh and blood dripping, with a slack jaw, pale face and out-stretched arms, the zombie makes for a very convincing and scary costume idea, depending on the amount of make-up used. Instead of searching through stores for the perfect zombie costume, why not make one at home, customized to the zombie design you have in mind?

Some Halloween costumes are age-appropriate, like Little Bo Peep or Mickey Mouse. Some costume ideas are based on trends and fads. Blood-sucking pale immortals is 'THE' current hot costume idea, jewelry sporting pirates are a past trend. But one costume idea that remains a Halloween favorite, irrespective of the trends or a person's age, is the zombie or undead costume. Dressing up as a zombie may not be the most unusual Halloween costume idea, or the neatest, but if you want to disgust and scare people around you and crack a lot of brain jokes, then this is the costume for you. It is very easy and rather cheap to design and make your own zombie clothes for Halloween. You may have to spend money only to buy fake blood and zombie make-up.

Zombie Costume Ideas

The first step in making costumes is the design. You need to decide on your pre-zombie persona. Are you the undead sorority chick? Or a zombie doctor armed with virus-filled injections? Perhaps you were a mild-mannered carpenter or a truck driver. You could even dress-up as a high school student, zombie style, as an undead jock, cheerleader or nerd. Two popular zombie ideas are to go as an infected undead corporate worker or as a zombie housewife. Be as imaginative as possible, any profession or job will do, the more unique the better.

Zombies are known for traveling in groups or hordes. In fact, the large and immense zombie population is the scare factor in movies like Dawn of the Dead or the Resident Evil series. So try to dress-up as a group of zombies on the hunt for flesh. Dress-up as a zombie family, with undead Dad, Mom and kids, who got infected while camping. With friends, you'll can go in different costumes or dress-up as a group that got infected en masse, such as:
A dentist convention that was attacked by zombies, resulting in zombie dentists.
Cheerleading troupe
High-school class
Sports team
Construction workers
Hillbillies
Group of stockbrokers
A rock band
Barbershop quartet
Scout troop
How to Make Your Own Zombie Clothes

Costume Collection
Once you have come up with the costume's design, start collecting the materials. Based on what you have decided to wear as your base costume, collect clothes accordingly. Search closets, wardrobes and basements for old clothes that can be torn up. Or head to the nearest Goodwill store or thrift center and do some cheap clothes shopping.

To be as authentic as possible, you need to shop for or use the appropriate clothes. Say, you are dressing up as corporate zombie, get a nice suit or a smart shirt and skirt. Doctor zombies will need a shirt, tie, trousers and most importantly, a white lab coat. Nurses, police, deliveryman, for all such professions, get the right uniform. A word of caution, the clothes need to be ruined completely for the zombie effect.

Tearing and Ripping
It's shredding time! You need to make rips, tears, holes, scratches, basically your clothes should look like you have just crawled your way out of a zombie pit. The idea is not to destroy the clothes, but rather, to "zombify" them. Tattered, torn clothes are the key sign of a respectable zombie.

You need to render the tears artistically on the clothes. The best way to do so is to wear the clothes and then make the tears. You can do this yourself but for best results, get someone to help you. Use scissors to tear and cut the cloth up. To get a real jagged look, get pinking shears or special art jagged-edge scissors. Make tears in positions you are comfortable with. Avoid wardrobe malfunctions with rips and tears in inappropriate places.

Tears should be made in all the clothes worn, from the collar to the trousers. And they should match your zombie back-story. For example, the rips in your pant's legs were due to a clawing undead hand. Scruff marks on the pant's knees are from your frantic crawling attempts to get away. A torn sleeve and a huge tear on your shoulder, are when the monsters finally caught you. Tear off pockets and cut collars into jagged edges. If headgear is worn, make tears and rips in it as well. Belts can be cut in half messily and left hanging. Make bite marks on your tie with pinking shears.

The Color Effect
Once the clothes are torn to your satisfaction, they need a little color. Zombies ooze blood, plus at some point in tearing your clothes, they would have bitten you. So to look bitten and mauled at, your clothes need to be sprinkled liberally with blood splats, dots and splatter. Use fake blood or fabric paint to "bloody up" your costume. You can make your own fake blood or buy some from a store but make sure the color is a real blood-red and not pink! You can spray on blood in some places. Dip a paintbrush in fake blood and tap the stem or pull back on the bristles to splat blood onto the clothes. Try to line the tears and rips with blood, like a mild flesh wound. Dip your hands in the fake blood and make 1 or 2 hand-prints.

Zombies get dirty too, so rub some soil on your clothes for the dirt look. You can even roll around on the lawn for a while, to pick up grass stains. Rubbing ash onto your clothes, will also help. Tire marks on your clothes, make an awesome addition to your back-story (you were hit by a car full of zombies, who then climbed out and infected you!), so take the clothes off, lay them on the driveway and run your car over them once. You can even drag the clothes down your driveway, so they look worn-out.

Some off-the-wall ideas are:
Zombie superhero: Undead Batman or Spiderman to the rescue (or not!). Get a superhero costume and tear it up, then add blood and gory makeup.
Undead schoolgirl/boy: A very popular zombie costume. Use an old school uniform or rent a uniform costume.
Zombie chef: Chef's hat, apron, shirt and trousers, sprinkled with blood and torn in the right places. A giant bloody cleaver or a dish with fake bloody brains on it, make ideal props.
Zombie cop: Either patrolmen or biker cop uniform will do. Get a toy gun, holster and handcuffs and bloody them up for props.
Zombie Ninja: Get a ninja costume and tear it up right. Then add flesh wounds and use a fake sword or katana, dipped in fake blood.
Zombie surfer dude: Go shirtless with a lot of flesh wounds. Rip up shorts and get a surfboard as a prop. You can even make a foam fake surfboard and make jagged bite marks on it.
Undead surgeon: Get green surgeon scrubs, surgical mask and plastic gloves for this look.
Zombie FBI agent: Black suit, black tie, dark glasses, ripped and shredded. Weapons and bloodied badge are needed.
Zombie bride: An undead bride, her pristine white wedding gown, all blood-spattered and torn, a bouquet of bloodied flowers in her hand, with her veil hiding a hideously bitten face, indeed a very scary costume.
Zombie-hunter-turned-zombie: Shred a brown trench coat, fingerless gloves, cowboy hat, jeans and a T-shirt and smear bloody hand-prints on them. Use make-up to create a lot of flesh wounds.
Scout zombie: Get a boy or girl scout costume or uniform to turn into the best prepared zombies around.
Medieval zombie: Wear a knight's chain mail or armor costume and be very generous with fake blood and bloody make-up. Useful props include bloody axes, chains or maces.
Fairy-tale zombies: Instead of going as a traditional fairy-tale Snow White or Sleeping Beauty, go as the zombie version, with tattered dresses and flesh wounds! There's a whole universe of fairy-tale characters from Red Riding Hood to Aladdin, so 'zombify' whichever one you like.
Homemade zombie costumes are very easy to make as long as you have the right clothes and creativity. Along with clothes, you need to apply an appropriate amount of zombie make-up, face paint and hairdo. Remember to decorate yourself with flesh wounds and bite marks to look like a legit zombie. Props can be basic, like bloodied weapons or humorous like a corporate zombie with a mug of bloody coffee or a girl scout zombie selling "flesh" cookies. Zombie attitude is also important, stiff limbs and jerky walk, slack jaw and dull facial expressions and moaning and groaning sounds. Dress-up like the undead to be the center of attention at any Halloween get-together or party.

Creative Writing

If you are looking for a new hobby that you can do for little to no money, creative writing might be for you!
Creative writing is a great way to expend some creative energy, explore emotions, invent new worlds and characters, as well as brush up on your writing skills. Writing creatively is something you can do with very little time, or with extended periods of time, and you don't need much to get you started. It is a great hobby that anyone can do, alone or within a group. Who knows - you might even become a famous writer one day!

Choose a Genre
Creative writing can take on many forms. When you start to write creatively, you should choose a genre to focus on. These might include poetry, short stories, novels, creative non-fiction, memoirs, or a hybrid of two or more of them. It's a good idea to test out a few genres before you pick one, but focusing on one can help you hone your craft and improve over time. It's the same with any other activity; practice makes one perfect. You don't want to spread yourself too thin by trying too many things.

Reading
Any writer will tell you that the best way to improve your writing is to read. You should read both within your genre and outside it. This will not only give you ideas for different styles to test out, but also ideas for what to write about. All writing is part of a conversation, and you need to find what voice and topic you can add to it. In that way, it's okay to use snippets of other writing for inspiration, and it's okay to respond directly to another piece of writing. Professional writers do that all the time!

Supplies
You don't need much in the way of supplies to start writing. If you prefer to handwrite things, you may want to start with a notebook, journal, or a diary. It's a good idea to keep all of your writing in one notebook though, so you can refer to it. Your first draft of something might not work perfectly, but you may be able to take pieces of it to use in another piece of writing. That's what good writers do; they reuse what worked and keep what didn't, just in case. Don't ever throw anything away, and if you make significant changes to your draft, it's a good idea to save the original in case you want to go back to it. Another great idea is to start writing with a computer if you have one. This will allow you to track your changes and save your drafts without taking up too much space.

Classes and Writing Groups
If you feel you need a little more formal instruction, you can take a creative writing class or join a writing group. You can find writing classes in almost any town through many venues, but sometimes they cost money. If you want to start a writing group, all you need are a few people who want to work on their writing. You can meet or exchange emails, but having a group can help you meet deadlines and get feedback too. It's also free to start one.

Publishing Options
Writers generally like to have a venue for their writing. If you are writing creatively and just want to get your work out there, you can start a blog or a website with your writing. This can also help you get feedback from readers and can hold you accountable for writing regularly. If you want to pursue more professional venues, you can submit your work to magazines, professional websites, or publishers, when you feel you're ready.

What does your Zodiac Sign Say about your Hobbies?

Hobbies that people choose to pursue depend on their basic nature, temperament and interests. Your zodiac sign can also say a lot about your hobbies. This article talks about details relevant to your sun signs in order to get an idea of your hobbies.

You can tell a lot about someone simply by knowing a person's zodiac or astrological sign. This is because, astrology helps in understanding the basic nature of a person, to some extent. Now, the type of hobby one looks for depends on the nature of the person. For instance, as Aries individuals are energetic and adventurous, their hobbies will include activities with mobility and less concentration. So, do you wish to know what your Zodiac sign has to say about your hobbies? The following section of this article describes all the twelve signs of the zodiac and their hobbies.

Hobbies by Zodiac Signs

By knowing the zodiac sign of a person, you can guess what kind of hobby or leisure activity he/she will pursue. Many will realize that they share the same hobbies as they belong to the same sign. The zodiac sign dates mentioned alongside will help you determine your own zodiac sign, and know your hobby interests as well.

Aries (21st March - 19th April)
Characteristics: Aries individuals are enthusiastic, active, and energetic. They get bored with any stationary activities, and hence, will always look out for some action.
Their hobbies usually include sports, outdoor games, adventure sports, video games, listening to vibrant music, motorbike riding, or watching the latest programs (when they are at home).


Taurus (20th April - 20th May)
Characteristics: Taurus individuals themselves are quite artistic and have an excellent taste for all kinds of art. However due to their lazy temperament they pursue less number of leisure activities.
The following hobbies can be found in a Taurus individual's hobby list: painting, music, singing, sculpting, collecting antiques or jewelry, gardening, fishing, reading, etc. Taurus individuals are often lazy and seldom undertake sports as their hobbies.


Gemini (21st May - 20th June)
Characteristics: Gemini individuals love pursuits that stimulate their mind as well as physique. However, their fickle nature makes them shift their interests constantly.
A Gemini's list of hobbies range from table tennis, badminton, adventure sports, solving puzzles, surfing the Internet, to attending cultural events, writing, learning languages, etc.


Cancer (21st June - 22nd July)
Characteristics: Cancer individuals are generally home buddies and their hobbies are related to it. But, at the same time, it is not surprising to find a Cancer individual involved in charity events.
Hobbies like gardening, interior decoration, cooking, etc., are popular among individuals of this sign. Secondly, they also love traveling, visiting museums, reading, collecting antiques, collecting coins and postcards, etc.


Leo (23rd July - 22nd August)
Characteristics: Men and women born under the sun sign Leo have varied interests. Usually, they are very confident, smart and will look for the best of things.
Their list of hobbies include dancing, painting, reading, adventure sports, interior decoration, listening to music, etc. Leos also love socializing and meeting new people.


Virgo (23rd August - 22nd September)
Characteristics: Virgo is an Earth sign and the individuals born under this sign are detail-oriented and usually intelligent. However, they are more inclined to intellectual activities than physical ones.
Virgo is an Earth sign and will appreciate hobbies related to agriculture like gardening, making handicrafts, etc. At the same time, their hobbies will include things that stimulate their mind like reading, writing, learning languages, surfing the Internet, etc.


Libra (23rd September - 22nd October)
Characteristics: Libra is one sign in the zodiac with versatile interests. These individuals appreciate art, fine arts and creativity. At the same time, they are also very social and love traveling.
Their list of hobbies include painting, reading, music, attending operas and music shows, other fine arts, fine dining, traveling, meeting new people, etc.


Scorpio (23rd October - 21st November)
Characteristics: Scorpio individuals will usually look for hobbies which will help them grow in their business or other pursuits. They are generally shy and will avoid hobbies which involve large groups.
Scorpions are interested in hobbies connected to occult sciences like yoga, meditation, religion, philosophy and astrology. Reading about it or practicing it is a hobby of several Scorpion individuals. Secondly, they also love music, reading, collecting jewelry, perfumes, clothes, etc.


Sagittarius (22nd November - 21st December)
Characteristics: People born under the sun sign Sagittarius also have myriad interests and likings. They love nature and usually love outdoor activities.
Their long list of hobbies involve traveling, writing, reading, camping, adventure sports, philosophy, trying different things, visiting new places, etc.


Capricorn (22nd December - 19th January)
Characteristics: Capricorn individuals are introverts and prefer hobbies that can be carried out in the peace of their homes. They are also practical, and their hobbies also include creating useful things.
Reading, gardening, artistic projects, painting, eating out, etc., are some of the hobbies undertaken by Capricorn men and women. Making useful crafts is another hobby of these individuals.


Aquarius (20th January - 18th February)
Characteristics: Aquarius is another sign of the zodiac with varied interests and hobbies. Although they are known as techno freaks, they also love to spend their time doing other activities like reading.
Their hobbies mainly include playing computer games, solving puzzles, inventing new things, surfing the net, undertaking outdoor activities, socializing, adventure sports, etc.


Pisces (19th February - 20th March)
Characteristics: People born under the sun sign of Pisces are known to be the gentlest souls of the zodiac. True to their symbol, most of the Pisces individuals are found to enjoy water related sports and activities.
Their list of hobbies involve reading, writing, music, dancing, watching movies, fishing, water sports, cooking, collecting furniture or dishware, etc.


Although the list gives a fairly good idea on the temperament of an individual born under the specific sign and his/her hobbies, it should not be taken as the ultimate word. The presence of other planets and stars can affect the nature of the person to a great extent. One should remember that astrology only helps in understanding a person in the broader sense. Ciao!

How Cold Reading Works

Ever been to a fortune-teller who sized you up pretty accurately the very first time he met you? Well, the technique he used to make all those apparently correct guesses is known as cold reading. Read ahead to find out all about the art of cold reading and how it works.

Indeed! Predicting someone's future or making guesses about the personality and lifestyle of a complete stranger involves more observational skills than spiritual mumbo-jumbo or psychic talent. That's right, I just said it! Now, before my spiritually inclined, occult-loving readers give me the brickbats, let me lift the veil off the art of cold reading - the phenomenon wherein the cold reader uses his/her exceptionally sharp observation skills to evaluate the personality traits and characteristics of his/her subject. They, then, try to make connections between their assessments and the probable life situations that their subjects are likely to be in, based upon these readings. The final verdict or prediction is an assumption which is arrived at by summing up these observations and probabilities based upon such observations. When delivered with unwavering confidence, there is little that an average subject can do to question the accuracy of such a 'prediction' or 'sizing-up' act! The best thing about cold reading is that this is a skill which can easily be learned and perfected over time. Now, wouldn't you want to get to the details of how cold reading works? The following paragraphs will tell you all the 'tricks of the trade' which can be used to learn the 'trade' itself or for merely quenching one's curiosity about the subject.

Cold Reading Laid Bare

Before we get to the techniques, let's get to know cold reading from a closer perspective. Cold reading is a very popular technique used by psychics, fortune-tellers, illusionists, telepaths, etc., to convince their subject that they have him/her all sized up despite not knowing them personally. Remember Sherlock Holmes' inductive method of investigation based upon acute observation of fine details and drawing conclusions therefrom? Well, that is the best example of cold reading in its least flawed form! For instance, by just taking a look at the palms and fingers of a subject, Sherlock Homes could make exact guesses about the latter's health, financial condition, type (sometimes, even brand) of cigar smoked by him, grooming and social habits, hobbies, vices, etc., - all this without being previously acquainted with the subject!

Similar to hypnosis, for a cold reading to be successful, the subject must be cooperative and open to take in suggestions made by the reader. Now, this is where the cold reader's subtle persuasive skills come to play. The reader must, first, ascertain the likelihood of the subject to cooperate. This is done by taking broad and generalized assumptions and stating them to be applicable to the subject. For instance, the reader can test the waters by claiming that the subject hurt himself from a fall and also had accidents around water in his early childhood. As we all know, most people have had accidents around water (near-drowning, slipping on a wet surface, etc.) and have had injuries from falls (such as while climbing trees or tripping down a staircase) in their childhood and this makes such a statement pretty generalized.

There is every possibility that these same things could have happened to the subject as well. Now, if the subject feels that this information pertains to him at that moment readily agrees with the reader's statement, the reader can easily see that more such generalized scenarios and suggestions can be subtly slipped into the subject's psyche. If the reader is skillful enough and the subject is adequately receptive to subtle psychological suggestions, the former can even get the latter to agree with his claims of instances and incidents which may not have happened to the latter at all! In such a situation, the reader has gained so much control over the subject's psyche that the subject believes every reading of himself to be true, whether or not such is the case!

Cold Reading Techniques

Keen observation, generalized statements and skill of drawing conclusions based upon such observations are the three legs that hold up the tripod of cold reading. However, there are a few specific techniques that employ certain other psychosocial elements, along with the basic trio of cold reading, to make this phenomenon more credible. Let's check out what these 'other' specialized techniques are.

Barnum Statements
Also known as 'Forer effect', Barnum statements are generalized statements which are addressed to a specific person in such a way that they seem to pertain specifically to that person. For instance, it is not uncommon for a lot of people to have had problems with friends or relatives at some point of time or the other. However, when cold reading a subject, the reader would say this same thing in a more personal way such as:

I can sense that there has been some friction between you and someone very close to you in the past.

When you think logically, this statement couldn't be any more vague! However, a subject who is unconsciously cooperative and easily accepts subtle psychological suggestions is apt to fall for such gigs and take them personally. This is especially true for subjects who are emotionally distressed and deliberately seek out soothsayers and fortune-tellers to find reasons for, and solutions to, their troubles. When used cleverly and flavored with subtle personalization, a Barnum statement can make even a logically sound person believe that the reader has some psychic gift of intuitive perception. This often causes the subject to open up and divulge more information about himself which the cold reader can take advantage of to make base his assumptions upon. This makes the readings even more credible and such a reading is known as warm reading as there is some personal information about the subject involved, besides observations, which fortify the assumptions and take the predictions closer to accuracy.

The Rainbow Ruse
A rainbow ruse is nothing but a direct suggestion to a subject. Such a statement directly attaches certain characteristics and personality traits, usually contradictory in nature, to the subject. This is a very clever trick because when you tell a subject that he/she has 'a', 'b' and 'c' positive aspects but sometimes, he/she gets caught up in 'd', 'e' and 'f' negative personality traits as well, you can't be totally wrong! You see, a majority of the people who you meet in everyday life fall under the 'gray' category, no one has a completely 'black' or 'white' personality (those few, rare ones who do would never be found anywhere near soothsayers and crystal-gazers!). That being said, it is but natural for a person to be a mixture of both positive and negative personality traits. Take, for instance, the following statement:

You are not the type of person who deliberately picks up a fight; you are even quite forgiving of others' follies. However, when someone breaks your trust or does something unjust to you, you can hold a grudge forever.

Either or both ends of this statement may apply to the subject. However, even if the subject is such that he does, deliberately, pick up fights with people, he would like to believe himself as a forgiving, polite person. Hence, he would gladly accept and agree with the reader's suggestion.

Shotgunning
Are you familiar with how a shotgun works? It fires a batch of pellets in very close succession towards the target so that at least a few hit it. This is exactly how shotgunning works as far as cold reading is concerned and it usually works with a large audience. The cold reader throws a number of broad and generalized suggestions towards the audience in the hope that someone or the other would take at least a couple of suggestions and deem those to be applicable to them. This way, almost all suggestions would be applicable to this collective subject which is the audience. Take, for instance, the following statement:

I can sense a broken heart amidst you which still hasn't been able to move on. Also, I can sense a very close relation which has always been there, no matter what the situation... an older woman with whom you may not have agreed in the past, but who has wanted nothing but the best for you.

Now, when you are addressing a large audience, such vague, broad statements are quite likely to apply to more than a couple of people in there! Also, if you notice any kind of pattern in your audience such as age group, social strata, profession, etc., you can customize your shotgunning statements accordingly. For instance, when addressing an audience which mostly comprises middle-aged persons, you may say something like, "I can sense the loss of a father from some ailment in the abdominal region." Many of your middle-aged audience members are likely to have lost their fathers to kidney or liver problems or even diabetes, so they will, instantly, be able to relate to such a statement and become more open to your influence!

So, that was all about cold reading and how it works. As I mentioned before, it is a skill that can be acquired and perfected with practice and just about anyone, with decent observational talents, can learn the tricks of this 'trade'. Even if you do not intend to earn your livelihood from cold reading, you can always try its various techniques on close friends and acquaintances and freak them out! Trust me, it would be fun watching a procession of awestruck expressions on familiar faces!