March 2022 – Pluto Blogs

Cause of Ring Worm

Ringworm, unlike its name, is caused by fungi and not by any worm. Sometimes also termed as ‘tinea corporis’, ringworm is an infectious skin disease caused by mold like fungi called Dermatophytes. Dermatophytes thrive on dead tissues present on skin surface and follows circular path to spread its infection. It usually affects skin, scalp, fingers, toenails and foot.

One of the most common causes of ringworm among humans is through direct contact with other humans—sharing combs or clothing or by touching the infected area. It is also transmitted through infected pets or other animals. Children, especially, due to their proximity with pets, are prone to the disease.

Ringworm thrives in moist conditions. Wearing caps or socks for long periods give the fungi an opportunity to spread, which is why ringworms usually occur in feet, toes, thighs and scalp.

Pets often carry this disease from contaminated soil or by exposing themselves to rodent burrows. Subsequently, these animals transmit the disease to other animals and humans in close proximity. Precautions are necessary, since pets may not show symptoms despite being potential carriers.

Take precautions such as keeping skin clean and dry since fungi thrive quickly in unclean and moist conditions. If you have pets in your house, be sure to have them checked by your veterinarian regularly. If infection occurs, appropriate precautions and prescribed medication can successfully treat ringworm within 2-3 weeks.

Cause Of Primary Pulmonary Hypertension

It is strange but true that the exact Cause of Primary Pulmonary Hypertension is yet to be ascertained. However, researchers in this regard suggest that certain diet drugs (appetite suppressants) can make a person more prone to developing this fatal condition.

Primary Pulmonary Hypertension is basically a disorder of the blood vessels wherein the pressure in the pulmonary artery rises above normal levels, thereby posing a life-threatening risk. Several diseases or causative factors, largely unknown, may lead to the malfunctioning denoted by the term Primary Pulmonary Hypertension.

Research done in recent times point out that A mutation in the gene denoted BMPR2 Causes Primary Pulmonary Hypertension. Researchers have sensed that other genes may also possibly lead to causing Primary Pulmonary Hypertension. It is also probable that other genes can contribute to the development of the disease in people, together with the known mutation of the BMPR2 gene. The disease is thereby inheritable via genes.

Most cases of Primary Pulmonary Hypertension are, however, found to be not inherited as a result of traits in genes. Cirrhosis of THE liver, stimulant abuse and H.I.V. infection are often closely associated with Primary Pulmonary Hypertension, though no cause of the disease has been specifically delineated. Conclusive evidence has, however, been found regarding a direct correlation between the usage of appetite suppressants (diet drugs) and the risk of Primary Pulmonary Hypertension. The names of Pondimin and Redux, commonly known as Fen Phen, are important in this regard. These drugs were recommended by hospitals and health centers from the 1970s to late 1990s. The manufacturers and the people prescribing it (doctors and the like) did not have the necessary diligence to discover the severe risk involved in using the drugs. Their ignorance has, thus, been the cause of thousands of people either suffering from the disease or potentially at risk to fall prey to the deadly condition.

Cause Of Insomnia

The National Institute of Health defines insomnia as, “the perception or complaint of inadequate sleep” and classifies it as three types; transient, intermittent and chronic. Most people have suffered from insomnia at one time or other in its transient (one day to a month) or intermittent (occasional) form. Around 10% of the population suffers from chronic insomnia. Elderly persons, menopausal women and pregnant women are more likely to be more affected than others.

Causes of insomnia are classified into three broad categories – life style, physical health disorders and mental health disorders. Life style can be subdivided into what we eat, sleeping environment and sleep schedule. Alcohol, caffeine, nicotine, some allergic foods and medications like decongestants, bronchodilators, anti hypertensives, anti depressants, diuretics, anti epileptics, anti arrhythmic, thyroid medications and histamine H2 inhibitors are known to cause insomnia.

Environmental noise, extreme temperatures, change of sleeping area, uncomfortable bed and insects like mosquitoes are the main environmental factors that prevent sleep. Varying work schedules like shift work, jet lag, long afternoon naps and recreational activities are also causes that upset a good night’s sleep.

Obviously, one cannot fall asleep if in pain due to injury or illness. Sleep specific disorders are obstructive sleep apnea, central sleep apnea, restless leg syndrome, circadian rhythm disorder and periodic limb movement disorder. The diseases that become an underlying cause of insomnia are arthritis, asthma, Parkinson’s diseases, hyperthyroid, prostrate problems, degenerative disease, gastro esophageal reflux, fibromyalgia kidney disease, heart failure and rhinitis. Menopause can cause sleep problems due to hormonal imbalance.

Stress, anxiety, grief, depression, schizophrenia, panic disorder and mania and acute psychosis are psychiatric conditions that cause insomnia. Above all, the worry that one is not getting sufficient sleep is likely to worsen the problem. This, in turn, creates a vicious cycle, which can make the condition serious.

The causes of insomnia are very complex and it is very difficult to pin down to a single or even a few causes. A patient study of behavioral pattern, sleep history chart and if required specialized study with polysomnogram and full co-operation of the family is needed to determine the cause of insomnia.

Cause of Heartburn

Heartburn is a burning pain starting from behind the breastbone and ribs and radiating upwards towards the throat. Basically, heartburn is caused by hydrochloric acid spilling upward into the esophagus from the stomach. The lining of the esophagus, unlike that of the stomach, is not protected against acid. The acid, being corrosive, inflames and irritates the esophagus and causes the heartburn.

There is a one-way valve between the stomach and the esophagus called the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), which seals the stomach and keeps the acid inside the stomach. Due to weak LES, relaxed LES or any other disease affecting the LES, the sphincter muscle allows acid to flow backwards into the esophagus and cause heartburn.

Foods that loosen or relax the LES include alcohol, citrus fruits, mint and chocolate. Foods that are acidic and irritate the esophagus directly are citrus fruit juice, tomato and spicy foods. Foods that increase the acid secretion in the stomach include caffeine beverages or carbonated beverages, alcohol, fatty foods, spicy foods, raw onions, garlic, black pepper and vinegar.

Pressure on the stomach causes it to eject acid into esophagus. Overeating, certain exercises, tight clothes, bending down, and stomach fat due to excess weight or pregnancy are some factors which increase pressure on the stomach. The acid secretion is also increased through stress, smoking and the practice of going to bed immediately after eating. Aging is another factor that may relax the LES valve, thereby causing heartburn.

Heartburn can also be a symptom of conditions like gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD), pregnancy, hiatal hernia, acid regurgitation, peptic ulcer, stomach emptying disorders, gastrointestinal motility disorder or even coughing too hard. Medications to treat respiratory problems, heart problems, blood pressure, arthritis, osteoporosis, anxiety, depression, insomnia, Parkinson’s disease and cancer are also known to cause heartburn. The use of aspirin can also cause heartburn.

From the causes of heartburn, it can be clearly deduced that generally, heartburn can be avoided or lessened by effecting some lifestyle changes, like altering our food intake, exercising, avoiding smoking and intake of alcohol, changing sleeping habits and avoiding certain medications.

Cause of Cerebral Palsy

The term cerebral palsy is used to describe a group of conditions that arise during the first few years of a child’s life. These conditions are usually the result of impaired development of, or damage to, the part of the brain that controls movement and posture. This developmental failure or damage results in spastic limb muscles and difficulty crawling, walking and grasping objects. Mental retardation and other symptoms may also be present. Cerebral palsy has no cure at present, and not all the factors that contribute to it are fully understood. However, research has helped explain some of the causes.

If cerebral palsy is present from birth, it is called congenital cerebral palsy. While the cause of congenital cerebral palsy is unknown in most cases, several factors are thought to contribute. Infections during pregnancy, such as rubella (German measles), toxoplasmosis and cytomegalovirus can cause damage to the fetal brain that may result in cerebral palsy. If the blood groups of the mother and fetus are not compatible, the mother’s body may produce antibodies that destroy blood cells in the fetus, leading to jaundice. Compounds that are produced during jaundice can cause fetal and infant brain damage. If either the mother or the fetus has a blood clotting disorder, this may lead to bleeding into the fetal brain, and subsequent brain cell damage and cerebral palsy.

During labor and delivery, a severe shortage of oxygen supply to the infant’s brain, or asphyxia, can result in brain cell damage. Such damage may lead to cerebral palsy, accompanied in some cases by seizures and mental retardation. Asphyxia only accounts for about six percent of all cerebral palsy cases; most infants with oxygen deprivation during labor and delivery develop normally.

If cerebral palsy develops after birth, it is called acquired cerebral palsy. Common causes of acquired cerebral palsy in infants are brain infections and head trauma.

Cause Of Bad Breath

Bad breath is a problem most people face today. Most bad breath problems begin in the mouth, and are a result of poor dental hygiene. Others are indicative of internal infections such as kidney failure, malfunction of the liver, disorders of metabolism, and infection of the sinuses or lungs.

Infections such as kidney failure and disorders of the metabolism can cause the release of unpleasant odors from the mouth. Metabolic disorders are difficult to diagnose because the unpleasant odors are not constant.

The three simplest reasons for bad breath from poor oral hygiene are consumption of food and drinks such as garlic, onions and soda; insufficient tooth brushing, and regular smoking or tobacco use. Brushing, flossing and rinsing with mouthwash on a regular basis are essential for good dental hygiene.

In addition, bad breath can also be caused by improper care of tooth cavities. Cavities are an ideal hiding place for food particles, which collect bacteria over time. Upon decomposing, these food particles release a sulfur compound that results in an unpleasant odor.

Improper care of the tongue can result in unpleasant odors being released from the mouth. The back of the tongue is rough and acts as an ideal hiding place. Food particles get lodged in the cracks and crevices, resulting in the release of sulfur compounds causing bad breath.

Bad breath can also result from not eating enough. In such cases, we deprive the body of its daily supply of fuel, in the form of food. To continue normal metabolism, the body breaks down fat and proteins, its secondary food supply, causing the release of bad odor.

A simple visit to the dentist can identify and treat potential oral health problems. However, if bad breath persists, it is essential that one consults a doctor to rule out any serious causes.

Catholic Book Publishing

The Catholic faith has made its presence felt not only in the religious aspect of the lives of it members, but also in education and a variety of social concerns. Given this, there is a need for the Catholic Church to reach out and clarify the views the Church has on different issues. These views can be expressed through books and other reading materials that Catholics have access to in Church or in the bookstore. To be able to express these views, certain groups in the Church and several congregations have chosen to establish publishing companies that cater to the publication of books and materials for Catholics.

What they publish

The most common materials that these publishers print are hymnals, missals and other materials for the celebration of the Eucharist. These publishers also print copies of the songs sung during Mass so that Catholics can learn the songs and sing along. Apart from these, Catholic publishing companies print reading materials such as books written by the Pope, other priests and even lay people. The only consideration for the printing of these materials is that they should cater to the spiritual needs of Catholics around the world. Some of these books cover subjects such as the Holy Sacraments, marriage, the priesthood, family and the modern Church. There are also books on the biographies of different saints and several notable Catholics.

For these publishing companies, profit is not the main objective. Instead, their goal is to be able to spread God’s message to the world. This is why most books published by Catholic publishing companies are relatively more affordable than other books you will find in bookstores.

Catholic publishing companies provide information to Catholics and non-Catholics alike. By printing Catholic-based reading materials, these companies not only help sustain the religious life of Catholics but also inform non-Catholics about the faith.

Catering Supplies

In any profession, having the right tools can spell the difference between success and failure. In the catering industry, this is very true. When caterers have access to the best ingredients and equipment to prepare food, they can create some of the most delicious food. However, some of the best equipment in cooking can be very expensive, which makes it hard for smaller caterers to have access to them. Given this, smaller caterers must find ways or take the necessary steps to acquire the best cooking equipment and supplies at more affordable prices.

Money saving tips

One of the best ways to get good prices on catering supplies is to buy the supplies from restaurants who are closing down or are in the process of getting rid of their old inventory. However, such opportunities are rare, which can make it hard to take advantage of this option. Another good source is the Internet as the fierce competition online have now made it possible to get some of the lowest prices on different products.

Another good way to get supplies at lower prices is to team up with other small caterers to buy supplies in bulk, which means that you would be able to get huge discounts on these items. However, doing so requires that you spell out the terms by which the purchase would be done so that you would avoid the stress of getting in conflict with your ‘partners’ in purchasing supplies. In relation to this, joining associations connected to your business could also open some discount opportunities on your purchases, as well as joining discount warehouse clubs, where you can buy wholesale products.

Lastly, employing the strategy of canvassing or comparison-shopping has been proven to be one of the best ways to save on your purchases. However, doing so entails investing a considerable amount of time and effort.

Having access to the best cooking equipment can mean the success of a caterer, as the right equipment and supplies can help him prepare food in the best way. However, these equipment can be very expensive, which is why a caterer needs to take certain steps such as buying online, which can help him get the best deals on some of the best catering equipment available in the market.

An Introduction To Casino Gambling

Casino gambling has been a hot source of debate among people coming from various religious and economic backgrounds.

Religious authorities generally frown on casino gambling because of its perceived social costs. This is why in highly religious countries, casino gambling (or any sort of gambling)is not allowed. Most Islamic nations specifically prohibit gambling while other nations tend to regulate it to some extent.

Most legal authorities also put some sort of censorship on gambling. The law does not recognize wagers as contracts and views consequent losses as “debts of honor” that cannot be enforced through the legal process. This leads to organized crime taking over the enforcement of large gambling debts, sometimes in a violent manner.

Since contracts of insurance have many features similar to wagers, legislation makes a distinction between the two. It typically defines any agreement wherein either of the party has an interest in the outcome of the bet beyond the specified financial terms as an ‘insurance contract.’ So the bet on whether one’s house will burn down becomes a contract of insurance, since a person has an independent interest in the security of his or her home.

Many people participate in casino gambling as a form of recreation and sometimes as a means to have more income. Before you become obsessed with casino gambling, remember that like any form of behavior, it involves variation in brain chemistry. Thus, it can lead to disruptive behavior and psychological addiction. The phenomena of reinforcement may also make gamblers persist in gambling even after incurring repeated losses.

Russian writer Dostoevsky portrays in his short story entitled “The Gambler,” the psychological effects of gambling on gamblers. He suggested that the idea of gambling or the get-rich-quick mentality may have originated from the Russians. He shows the effect of betting money for the chance of having more money in 19th century Europe. The origins of the Russian roulette fueled legends associating Russians with gambling.

Egypt Tours

The Arab Republic of Egypt, commonly known as Egypt, is a Republic in North Africa. “Egypt” came via the Latin word Aegyptus derived from ancient Greek, which means ‘the name of a temple of the god Ptah at Memphis.’ Cairo is the capital of Egypt and is known as the land for learning, culture and commerce.

Egypt has many exciting places to visit and enjoy. Tourists can choose from a variety of options like a Sahara wild safari, a trip to Cairo and also take a cruise down the Nile.

Egypt is well connected by trains and accessible via air, but due to the large area the country occupies, finding one’s way around can be time-consuming. An organized tour can be an excellent option for people who have less time to travel the land. However, adventurers can opt for a cruise down the Nile, which takes one along the beautiful river and is a spectacular experience. Tourists can also hire private tour guides. Tour guides in Egypt are certified by the government and are very helpful.

The hospitality industry in Egypt is thriving and has a lot to offer depending on the individual needs. There are a number of hotels to choose from in places like Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, Alexandria as well as the Hurghada and the Sharm-el Sheikh.

Egypt is a shopper’s paradise a host of local made goods. The Khan-al-Khalili bazaar in Cairo has many items of everyday use. There are bazaars in other towns, as well. A traveler can get the best of hand-made carpets, perfume-concentrates, and pharaohnic objects. Egyptian cotton is world-known for its purity. Authentic papyrus can be purchased in the local markets.

The best time to visit this desert land is between September and May. A trip to Egypt can be an informative one with the host of ancient sites and the rich historical civilization. Personalized tours are available to suit every traveler’s needs. Tourist visas can be obtained at any port of entry.