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Interesting Statistics

My Web Stats: Interesting Statistics. A project by Burak Bakay, Director of The Digital Agency

Category: Science & Nature

  • What percentage of deer ticks carry Lyme disease?

    Lyme disease is a serious illness that deer ticks can transmit. It is important to be aware of the percentage of deer ticks that carry the disease to avoid being infected. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that approximately 30% of deer ticks are infected with Lyme disease. This means that there is a significant risk of being infected if a deer tick bites you.

    What is Lyme disease?

    Lyme disease is a bacterial infection that is transmitted to humans and even animals through the bite of an infected black-legged tick. The symptoms of Lyme disease include fever, headache, fatigue, and a characteristic bulls-eye rash. If left untreated, Lyme disease can spread to the joints, heart, and nervous system. Lyme disease is treated with antibiotics.

    How do ticks get Lyme disease?

    Lyme disease is a serious infection that ticks can transmit. Ticks usually contract the disease from infected animals, such as deer or mice. When a tick bites an infected animal, it sucks up the bacteria that cause Lyme disease. The tick then passes on the bacteria to humans when it bites them.

    How fast can ticks transmit Lyme disease?

    Lyme disease can take just 12 hours to transmit to humans from a tick, according to a study at the Institut Pasteur. The majority of the time, though, the tick needs to be attached for at least 36 hours before the Lyme disease bacterium can be spread. That’s why it’s so important to check for ticks after being in an area where deer ticks live.

    If you find a tick on your body, remove it immediately and contact your doctor.

    What states have ticks that carry Lyme disease?

    The ticks that carry Lyme disease bacteria are found in many parts of the United States, so it is important for people who live in or visit these areas to be aware of the risks. In 2019, the CDC confirmed high Lyme disease incidents in the following states:

    • Connecticut
    • Maine
    • Delaware
    • Minnesota
    • District of Columbia
    • New York
    • Massachusetts
    • New Jersey
    • Maryland
    • Rhode Island
    • New Hampshire
    • Pennsylvania
    • Wisconsin
    • Virginia
    • West Virginia
    • Vermont

    What animals carry ticks with Lyme disease?

    There are more than 60 species of animals that carry ticks with Lyme disease. These include lizards, chipmunks, raccoons, mice, and squirrels.

    What natural essential oil keeps ticks that give Lyme disease away?

    Since 1997, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has registered the commonly used biopesticide oil of citronella as an insect repellant.

    Thyme and citronella essential oil together proved to be the most efficient against ticks, according to a study that examined 11 different essential oils.

    Where do you send ticks for Lyme testing?

    In the absence of symptoms from Lyme disease, tick testing can be a helpful way of knowing whether a Lyme disease-carrying tick has bitten you. However, even if the tick that bit you was carrying Lyme, it is not a replacement for a doctor’s diagnosis of a disease in you because not all people who were bitten by an infected tick will become infected.

    Ticks are often sent for testing in a sealed zip-lock bag and delivered to laboratories by overnight, priority, or UPS delivery services. The majority of tick testing operations require that you send the tick, in addition to your name, address, phone number (including area code), and payment. You might want to ask the lab for any further details around how much they require to be paid as well as their accepted payment methods.

    The majority of tick tests utilize the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay, which amplifies pathogen-specific DNA.

  • What percentage of water is absorbed by the small intestine?

    The small intestine absorbs 90% of the water from ingested food. Although the entire small intestine is involved in the absorption of water and lipids, most absorption of carbohydrates and proteins occurs in the jejunum.

    What is the small intestine?

    The small intestine is a component of the digestive system, measuring about 22 feet. It is located in the lower abdominal cavity beneath the stomach. The large intestine surrounds the abdominal cavity, framing its edges. The small intestine is one of the parts of a long pathway that food takes through your body, called the gastrointestinal (GI) tract.

    Listed are the functions of the small intestine:

    • systematically breaks food down
    • absorbs nutrients
    • extracts water
    • moves food along the gastrointestinal tract

    There’s a lot involved in all this process so it can take up to five hours to complete.

    What are the three parts of the small intestine?

    The small intestine has beginning, middle, and end sections. Although there isn’t really a division between the parts, there are some variances in the traits they possess and the roles they serve.

    Duodenum

    Your stomach feeds nourishment into the duodenum, which is the first part of your small intestine. The chute descends quickly (about 10 inches long) in a “C” shape curve around the pancreas and connects to the rest of the coiled intestines.

    Jejunum

    The remaining small intestine is coiled inside the lower abdominal cavity. Its middle section is the jejunum which makes up a little less than half of this remaining length. The jejunum has a deep red color that is characterized by many blood vessels.

    Ileum

    The small intestine’s final and longest section is called the ileum. It is the stage when the blood supply is reduced and the small intestine’s walls start to shrink and constrict. The ileum is where food spends the greatest time absorbing nutrients and water.

    How long does food stay in the small intestine?

    Food goes through the stomach and small intestine within six to eight hours after eating. For further digestion, the food then enters the large intestine (colon), absorbs more water, and, finally, eliminates undigested food. Thus, food passes entirely through the colon in around 36 hours.

    What percentage of alcohol is absorbed by the small intestine?

    When you consume an alcoholic drink, about 20% is absorbed into the bloodstream when the drink passes through your stomach and the other 80% of the alcohol is absorbed into the bloodstream when the drink reaches the small intestine.

    What is the name of the sphincter that separates the stomach from the small intestine?

    A band of smooth muscle known as the pyloric valve or pyloric sphincter controls the passage of partially digested food and digestive juices from the pylorus into the duodenum. It separates the stomach and the small intestine. It allows the contents of the former to pass into the latter It also prevents partially digested food and digestive juices from re-entering the stomach.

    What structural modification of the small intestine slows the movement of chyme through the lumen?

    The combination of food and digestive juices is called chyme. The small intestine’s cirrhotic folds help food move more slowly so that it can be better absorbed and digested. These folds broaden the surface area and facilitate chyme mixing.

    Furthermore, sodium bicarbonate neutralizes the acidic chyme coming from the stomach, protecting the small intestine from acid damage.

    How long is the recovery from small intestine surgery?

    If you’ve undergone surgery to remove part of your small or large intestine, you are likely to experience pain that comes and goes for the following days. You may feel like you have influenza (flu), low fever, or feel tired and nauseated. This is common and you should feel better after 1 to 2 weeks, and you will probably feel completely back to normal in 2 to 4 weeks.

    Your bowel movements may not be consistent for several weeks. You may also see some blood in your stool. Each person recovers at a different pace.

  • What percentage of the mass of a molecular cloud is in the form of dust?

    Only 1% of the mass of a molecular cloud is in the form of dust. Molecular clouds consist mainly of gas and dust but can contain stars as well. The material within the clouds is compressed as the cloud collapses, resulting in the creation of stars.

    What is a molecular cloud?

    A molecular cloud, also called a dark nebula, is an interstellar clump or cloud that is opaque due to its internal dust grains. Such dark clouds have no clearly defined outer boundaries and sometimes seem to have convoluted serpentine shapes because of turbulence. The density of the clumps may reach up to 105 H2 molecules per cubic centimeter or more.

    Through the naked eye, the biggest molecular clouds can be seen as dark spots against the Milky Way Galaxy. The so-called enormous molecular clouds, the largest nebulae of this kind, are a million times more massive than the Sun. They are around 150 light-years across, comprise a large portion of the interstellar medium’s mass, and have an average density of 100 to 300 molecules per cubic centimeter with an interior temperature of just 7 to 15 K.

    How is the molecular cloud formed?

    Molecular clouds can be formed in limited regions where the mean magnetic field is aligned with the direction of shock waves from supernovas, or in regions where a huge number of shock wave sweepings happen. Therefore, molecular clouds can only be seen in limited regions in shells.

    What happens to the rotation of a molecular cloud as it collapses to form a star?

    Within the regions of molecular clouds, a significant event takes place: the formation of stars from the gravitational collapse of dense clumps in the nebula. Each system has a rotary motion that is a result of the original motions of the material that is falling into it. Because of this spinning motion, the collapsing cloud flattens as it contracts. At some point, the majority of its mass is in a spinning condensation close to the center of a “protostar” that will eventually become one or more stars with close orbits. Surrounding the protostar is a rotating disk that is larger than the solar system which collapses into “protoplanets” and comets.

    The evidence for these hypotheses comes from observations of molecular clouds in extremely long-wavelength infrared light. The class of T Tauri variables, named after their prototype star in the constellation Taurus, is one of the brightest infrared sources that is connected to dark dust clouds. The T Tauri stars are always located in or close to molecular clouds and are known to be very young stars. Due to the warm dust clouds that are heated by the T Tauri star to a temperature of a few hundred kelvins, they are frequently also strong producers of infrared radiation.

    Which trigger could start the gravitational contraction of a molecular cloud?

    One of the significant features of molecular clouds is their concentration in the spiral arms of the Milky Way Galaxy plane. The uneven and bifurcating arms have no clear limit, yet when viewed from another galaxy, the nebulae in other spiral galaxies are spread out along these tiny lanes and form a symmetrical system. The nebulae are very close to the galactic plane; most are within 300 light-years, only 1% of the sun’s distance from the center. The high density of the stars within these arms supplies sufficient gravity to hold the gas to them.

    What are ways a giant molecular cloud can be triggered to gravitational collapse?

    A giant molecular cloud is supported against its own gravity by its internal pressure. This pressure has two sources:

    1. Gas pressure from internal heat
    2. Pressure from embedded magnetic fields

    If the gravity grows larger than the internal pressure, the entire cloud will collapse. There are possible ways to trigger this including:

    • Cloud-cloud collisions
    • Passage through a spiral arm of the galaxy
    • Shocks from nearby supernova explosions

    How big is the Orion Molecular Cloud Complex?

    A massive molecular cloud of interstellar gas and dust in the direction of Orion roughly centered on the Orion Nebula, is known as the Orion Molecular Cloud Complex. It is around 1,450 light-years away and measures 240 light-years across.

    The Complex consists of five main components — Orion A and B, which are two giant molecular clouds, Orion OB1 Association, Lambda Orionis Molecular Ring, which is centered on Meissa, and the Orion-Eridanus Superbubble.

    How do astronauts infer the presence of magnetic fields in a molecular cloud?

    Magnetic fields in the universe are not visible to the naked eye and to most telescopes—plus, the interstellar magnetic field is about 10,000 times weaker than Earth’s magnetic field, that’s why measuring magnetic strength is extra difficult to gauge. But data from NASA’s Stratospheric Observatory for Infrared Astronomy (SOFIA)—a specially created Boeing 747 airplane that flies into the stratosphere and observes the universe using an onboard, high-powered camera called HAWC+ can capture infrared wavelengths of light. This can be used to see dust grains as they align perpendicular to the magnetic fields, allowing us to understand the strength and direction of the magnetic fields in molecular clouds.

  • What percentage of stored body fat is in the form of triglycerides?

    Approximately 95% of all dietary fats are derived from a common form of fat called triglycerides. Animal and vegetable fats both contain triglycerides. After digestion, triglycerides circulate in your blood to be used as energy for your body’s cells. If there are any leftovers, they’re stored in the body’s fat for later use.

    What does it mean when your triglycerides are high?

    High triglycerides (hypertriglyceridemia) can be hazardous to your health. Unfortunately, high triglycerides, like high cholesterol, rarely reveal their symptoms. It’s important to get regular lipid blood tests to check your cholesterol numbers.

    A healthy number for triglycerides is just below 150 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL).

    Healthcare providers classify high triglyceride levels as:

    • Mild: 150-199 mg/dL.
    • Moderate: 200-499 mg/dL.
    • Severe: Greater than 500 mg/dL.

    Triglyceride levels that are too high put you at risk for pancreatitis, which can be fatal. The risk of heart and vascular disease is also increased by high triglyceride levels and includes:

    • Strokes
    • Carotid artery disease
    • Heart attack and coronary artery disease peripheral artery disease (PAD)
    • Metabolic syndrome

    Below is a list of factors that may affect the rise in triglyceride levels:

    • Menopause
    • Smoking
    • Obesity
    • Uncontrolled diabetes
    • Thyroid disease
    • Excessive alcohol use
    • Family history of high cholesterol
    • Liver disease or kidney disease
    • Medications include diuretics, hormones, corticosteroids, and beta-blockers
    • A diet that is consist of high sugar and simple carbohydrates

    Some drugs to decrease triglycerides have been prescribed to those with high levels. These might include medications that reduce cholesterol, such as statins.

    How do you lower high triglycerides?

    According to some studies, triglyceride levels decreased the most 6 months after starting a reduced-calorie diet  Lifestyle changes can also help lower triglycerides, these include:

    • Losing weight
    • Regular physical activity
    • Decreasing or stopping alcohol use
    • Staying away from refined carbohydrates and sugar
    • Eating healthier fats, such as those from plants and fish

    Furthermore, scientists say that four grams daily of prescription omega-3 medication can remarkably reduce triglyceride levels.

    What are the medications for high triglycerides?

    People with high triglycerides have been prescribed some medications to lower them. These may include cholesterol-lowering drugs, such as statins. If healthy lifestyle changes aren’t doing enough to lower your triglycerides, your doctor might recommend:

    • Statins. These cholesterol-lowering medications can be recommended if you also have poor cholesterol numbers or a history of having blocked arteries or diabetes. Some examples of statins are atorvastatin calcium (Lipitor) and rosuvastatin calcium (Crestor).
    • Fibrates. Fibrate medications, such as fenofibrate (TriCor, Fenoglide, and others) and gemfibrozil (Lopid), can help with your high triglyceride levels. Fibrates can’t be used if you have severe kidney or liver disease.
    • Fish oil. Also known as omega-3 fatty acids, fish oil can help lower the triglycerides in your body. Prescription fish oil preparations, such as Lovaza, contain more active fatty acids than many non-prescription meds. Fish oil taken at high levels can impede blood clotting, so consult with your doctor before taking any supplements.
    • Niacin. Niacin, sometimes called nicotinic acid, can lower triglycerides and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, also known as the “bad” cholesterol. Talk to your doctor before consuming over-the-counter niacin because it can interconnect with other medications you’re taking and cause significant side effects.

    Where are triglycerides synthesized?

    Either the monoacylglycerol pathway or the glycerol-3-phosphate pathway can produce triglycerides. Most human body cells hydrolyze triglycerides through similar pathways. This happens generally with a common purpose of providing fatty acids for the energy demands of the body.

    Where in the body are the majority of triglycerides stored for future energy needs?

    Triglycerides that are in excess can be stored in the liver or in fat cells to provide the body with energy if needed. As triglycerides are a stored energy source, this is a natural mechanism that gives the body a steady stream of energy, especially in between meals.

    When triglyceride storages need to be activated, the hormone glucagon is produced, signaling lipases to begin the process and release the fatty acids. This permits the triglycerides to go through the bloodstream once more and give the body cells that require it energy.

    Why are triglycerides more effective in energy storage than carbohydrates or glucose?

    Triglycerides can serve as reliable long-term energy storage molecules because they will not mix with water and won’t break down. We can also eat them (from delicious fried foods) and break them down to get energy. They are made up of a glycerol core attached to three fatty acid chains.

    What is a Triglycerides Test?

    A triglycerides test is a blood test used to gauge how much fat is present in your system. It can help you decide if you would need to take action to lower or prevent hazardous risks.

    Using a tiny needle, a medical practitioner will draw blood for the test from a vein in your arm. A little blood will be extracted and put into a vial after the needle is inserted. Usually, this process is completed within five minutes.

    High triglyceride levels become more of a problem as we grow older. As the risk rises, your healthcare provider might recommend doing tests more often. For younger adults, cholesterol tests every four to six years might be needed. If you have diabetes, have a family history of high cholesterol, or suffer from other heart disease risk factors, you may need more regular tests. Men ages 45 to 55 and women ages 55 to 65 need annual tests. Children will also need cholesterol and triglyceride tests. They usually get tested between ages 9 and 11, and again during young adulthood (between 17 and 21).

  • What percentage of plasma is water?

    Plasma is composed of 91%-92% of water and 8%-9% of solids. It mainly contains coagulants (mainly fibrinogen which aid in blood clotting), plasma proteins (such as albumin and globulin that help sustain the colloidal osmotic pressure at approximately 25 mmHg), electrolytes (like sodium, potassium, and calcium that help maintain blood pH level), and immunoglobulins (which help counter infection and other small amounts of enzymes, hormones, and vitamins).

    What is plasma?

    Plasma, also known as blood plasma, looks light-yellowish or straw-colored. It is the liquid base for whole blood. Whole blood minus erythrocytes (RBCs), leukocytes (WBCs), and thrombocytes (platelets) forms the plasma.

    The origin of plasma, which accounts for 55% of total blood, is not produced by any organ but is formed from water and salts absorbed by the digestive tract.

    What does plasma do for the body?

    As plasma serves the liquid base of blood, the functions provided by plasma and blood overlap. The collective functions include:

    • Coagulation: fibrinogen has a major role in blood clotting along with other procoagulants, like thrombin and factor X.
    • Defense: immunoglobulins and antibodies in plasma assist the body’s defense against bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites.
    • Maintenance of Osmotic Pressure: the colloidal osmotic pressure is leveled at around 25 mmHg by the plasma proteins, like albumin synthesized by the liver.
    • Nutrition: transfer of nutrients like glucose, amino acids, lipids, and vitamins absorbed through the digestive tract to different areas of the body act as a main source of fuel for growth and development.
    • Respiration: transportation of respiratory gases, i.e., transferring oxygen to various organs and bringing carbon dioxide back to the lungs for excretion.
    • Excretion: the blood eliminates nitrogenous waste products that were produced after cellular metabolism and carries them to the kidney, lungs, and skin for excretion.
    • Hormones: the blood carries hormones to the organs they are intended to affect.
    • Regulation of Acid-Base Balance: plasma proteins contribute to acid-base balance through their buffering function.
    • Regulation of Body Temperature: maintained by balancing heat loss and heat gain in the body.
    • Role in Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR): fibrinogen, an acute phase reactant, elevates during acute inflammatory conditions and helps with the increase in ESR, which is used as diagnostic and prognostic equipment.

    Which plasma constituent is the main contributor to clotting?

    There are four major products that are derived from the plasma and can be used:

    • fresh-frozen plasma (FFP)
    • plasma is frozen within 24 hours of phlebotomy (FP24)
    • cryoprecipitate-poor plasma (CPP), and thawed plasma.

    It should be noted that FP24, CPP, and thawed plasma contain varying amounts of clotting factors.

    The lack of specific clotting factors causes hemophilia. Hemophilia A is caused by factor VIII deficiency, while hemophilia B is due to insufficiency of factor IX. Symptoms involve hemarthrosis and intramuscular hematomas. Prophylactic transfusion of a factor VIII or factor IX concentrate is the main treatment used for children with severe hemophilia; however, this leads to the formation of antibodies against these factors over time.

    How often can you donate plasma?

    If you want to donate plasma, it can be as often as every two weeks. Blood donation is usually done every 12 weeks for men and 16 weeks for women. Typically, the heavier a donor is, the more plasma can usually be collected and the longer the appointment takes. At most donation centers, compensation for an appointment is typically between $50 and $75. First-time donors could receive big bonuses, too.

    Blood plasma is initially tested to ensure its safety for transfusion. According to the FDA regulations, the blood plasma undergoes a battery test to identify transmittable diseases, mainly hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C, along with syphilis and HIV. Fractionation separates individual plasma proteins into different fractions.

    After getting a tattoo, giving blood can be dangerous. Though uncommon, a dirty tattoo needle can carry a variety of bloodborne viruses, including hepatitis B.

    Plasma can be separated out of whole blood by spinning it with an anticoagulant in a centrifuge. Blood plasma is lighter than red blood cells, which form the lower yellowish layer. Plasma is frozen within 24 hours so that it can be used for transfusions without losing its functionality. It is thawed before use and has a shelf life of up to one year. While type O blood is the most desirable preference for blood for transfusions, the plasma of AB types is the most preferred because its plasma does not contain antibodies which could cause an adverse reaction.

    Plasma donations are used for slightly different purposes than general blood donations. Plasma donation is used for individuals who have experienced trauma, burns, or shock; adults or children with cancer; and people with liver or coagulation disorders.

    What is the difference between serum and plasma?

    The distinguishing factor between plasma and serum is that plasma has fibrinogen which is absent in serum.

    Both plasma and serum can come from blood using a centrifuge, but it should be noted that serum is obtained after the clotting of blood, while plasma can be drawn out before the coagulation of the blood.

    Serum is commonly used for blood typing but can also be used for diagnostic testing. Plasma, on the other hand, is known to be used for blood-clotting-related problems.

    Which hormone works directly in the intestine to increase plasma calcium levels?

    Calcitonin is a hormone that the thyroid gland creates and releases to help regulate calcium levels in the blood by decreasing it. Calcitonin counteracts the functions of the parathyroid hormone, which is a hormone that elevates blood calcium levels. Both parathyroid hormone and calcitonin help manage the level of calcium in your blood, which is important for a number of significant bodily functions. The difference is how they do so and how much they influence your calcium levels.

    What are plasma proteins?

    Distinct organs produce plasma proteins based on an individual’s stage of development.

    For instance, mesenchymal cells produce plasma cells during the embryonic period. Albumin is the first protein to be created, followed by globulin and the rest of the plasma proteins.

    In addition, adult plasma protein synthesis is carried out by the liver’s reticuloendothelial cells. Plasma protein structure is further influenced by the bone marrow, spleen, aging blood cells, and general body tissue cells. B lymphocytes produce immunoglobulins, which in turn produce gamma globulins.

  • What percentage of people snore?

    Snoring is a frequent disorder that can range from quiet snuffles to loud rasps and snorts. Around 40% of men and 30% of women snore occasionally, with about 15% of the total population snoring more frequently during the week.

    Snoring is the noise made when air is blocked from passing through the mouth during sleep. Poor muscle tone, bulky throat tissue, a long, soft tongue, or an enlarged uvula are just a few of the causes. It might also be a sign of a treatable medical issue that prevents you from breathing while you sleep, such as nasal polyps (a benign growth in the nose), a deviated septum, or congestion brought on by an illness or allergy.

    Is it normal for everyone to snore?

    Most people snore occasionally, but it’s usually nothing to worry about. Snoring occurs when you can’t breathe easily through your nose and throat while sleeping. This causes the tissues in the area to vibrate, creating the well-known snoring sound. People who snore frequently have too much throat and/or nasal tissue or “floppy” tissue that is more prone than normal to vibrate. Tongue positioning can also affect your ability to breathe smoothly.

    But for others, it could be a temporary problem or an indicator of an underlying medical condition. Snoring can disrupt sleep, causing you to feel tired and irritable the next day. It can also cause tension in your relationship, particularly if your snoring keeps your spouse awake.

    What Causes Snoring?

    Since people snore differently, it’s essential to understand the causes of snoring. Once you understand why your snoring occurs, you can find the best solutions for a quieter, deeper sleep for both you and your partner. Common causes of snoring include:

    1. Age – As you get older, your throat gets narrower, and the muscles in your throat become weaker. While you can’t do anything about growing old, lifestyle changes, new sleep routines, and throat exercises may help to prevent snoring.
    2. Being overweight or out-of-shape – Fatty tissue and poor muscle tone can lead to snoring. Even if you’re not overweight in general, having extra weight just around your neck can cause snoring. Exercise and losing weight can sometimes be enough to stop snoring.
    3. Gender – Men tend to have narrower airways than women and are more prone to snoring. Many people who snore have inherited these traits from their parents. While you can’t control your body type or gender, you can still control your snoring by making some simple lifestyle changes, bedtime routines, and throat exercises.
    4. Nasal and sinuses problems – Blocked airway or a stuffy nose makes inhalation difficult and creates a vacuum in the throat.
    5. Alcohol, smoking, or medications – Alcohol intake, cigarette smoking, or certain medications, such as tranquilizers like lorazapam (Ativan) or diazepam (Valum), can increase muscle relaxation, which leads to more snoring.
    6. Sleep posture – Sleeping flat on your back can cause the flesh of your throat muscles to relax and block your airway. Changing your sleep position may help.

    How do you fix snoring?

    Trying different techniques can help you learn how to deal with snoring while sleeping and identify if you need to consult with the doctor about your snoring. There are several different ways to treat snoring, but the most effective ones include the following:

    • Sleep on your side
    • Wear a nasal strip or dilator
    • Use an anti-snoring mouthpiece
    • Reduce your body weight
    • Try mouth exercises
    • Quit smoking
    • Avoid alcohol before bed

    What is a snore guard?

    One type of approach to control snoring is using a snore guard. A snore guard (Mandibular Advancement Devices) can help with tongue-based snoring. They can be used by moving your lower jaw forward and holding it there throughout the night. This keeps the tongue away from the throat and soft palate, which helps keep an open airway.

    You can do a self-diagnosis to see if a snoring guard would be effective for your condition. To perform the test, put your tongue out as far as you can, hold it between your teeth, and make a snoring noise. If it is reduced in this position, it is likely that a snore guard will be helpful.

    How do snore strips work?

    Nasal strips are a type of device that pulls the nostrils open, allowing more room for air to flow into the nose. All brands of snore strips work the same way. The larger nasal passage helps improve airflow through the nose, which reduces snoring.

    The nasal strips are small flexible bands that are worn on the outer surface of the nose. The underside of the strip has an adhesive material that makes it stick to the skin. One strip is placed directly in the center of the nostril, so it sits above each nostril.

    Is snoring always a sign of apnea?

    Sleep apnea is different than simple snoring because individuals with sleep apnea actually stop breathing for brief periods during the night. Sleep apnea has also been associated with higher risks for heart disease, diabetes, and other medical problems.

    Snoring is a common symptom of a serious medical condition known as sleep apnea, which is characterized by interrupted breathing throughout most of the night. It’s a disorder that carries serious health consequences. Snoring and sleep apnea both cause problems for you and your partner, but sleep apnea usually causes more problems. It makes you wake up many times during your sleep, often gasping for breath. You may or may never be aware of these awakenings. This causes daytime fatigue and reduces your ability to function. Sleep apnea is associated with heart disease, stroke, obesity, and accidents, and it can result in fatal accidents because sleep apnea sufferers are often too tired to drive safely.

    When Should You See a Doctor About Snoring?

    Snoring is often harmless, but it’d be best to see a doctor if there are any of these potential sleep apnea signs:

    • Snoring that happens three or more times per week
    • Very noisy or bothersome snoring
    • Snoring with gasping, choking, or snorting sounds
    • Obesity or weight gain
    • Daytime drowsiness
    • Lack of focus or mental sharpness
    • Morning headaches and congestion
    • High blood pressure
    • Nighttime teeth grinding (bruxism)
    • Frequent nighttime urination (nocturia)

    If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s essential to address them with a doctor who can diagnose whether additional testing or treatment is needed.

  • What percentage of people have freckles?

    Freckles aren’t limited to fair-skinned redheads; however, they’re most common among red-haired people. Between 4 – 5% of the total world population have freckles.

    What are freckles?

    Freckles are tiny, harmless marks that appear on the surface of the skin. Some people are more prone to getting freckles than others. It depends on their genes and skin types. 

    Newborn babies don’t have freckles. Freckles first show up in children between the age of two and four years old, this is due to the fact that the skin needs a certain amount of time exposed to the sun to start making those melanin spots, and they may disappear or become less noticeable as they grow up into adults. People may continue to get more freckles until they’re in their 20s.

    What causes freckles?

    Freckles are caused by both genetics and sun exposure. Freckles appear when melanin, the pigment responsible for giving the skin its color, builds up under the skin. Freckles may appear brown, red, or tanned. They commonly develop in areas of the body that are frequently exposed to sunlight, like your hands, face, and neck.

    Sun exposure

    Skin cells produce extra melanin so it can protect your skin from sunburn. Freckles tend to appear when you’re exposed to the sun because of this.

    Freckles can occur over a large area of the body and may reappear or get darker during the summer months. New skin cells replace old skin cells during the winter months, so freckles tend to fade or disappear.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v2OralTN7ss

    Genetics

    Genetics also play a major role in who is more prone to freckling based on which type of pigment their body produces.

    There are two kinds of melanin produced by the body: pheomelanin and eumelanin. Eumelanin shields the skin from UV rays while pheomelanin does not. The type of melanin produced by the body depends on a gene called MCR1. Dark-skinned people tend to produce more eumelanin than light-skinned people, so they are less likely to develop freckles.

    Moreover, eye freckles are very similar to moles on the skin. Melanin is produced by cells called melanocytes. When these cells clump together, they form a spot on the skin called an eye freckle.

    What is the difference between moles and freckles?

    Two of the most frequently observed skin growths are moles and freckles. To tell the difference between the two, one of the easiest ways is to just feel the growth’s surface.

    Moles are usually raised whereas freckles tend to be flat. If you look at the pigment, you can get an idea as to whether it’s a mole or a freckle. A mole is usually darker than your skin tone, and a freckle is typically only a few shades lighter than your skin color and may appear dark red or light brown. Freckles generally appear in large clusters, but moles appear in one spot.

    The more significant difference is that moles can develop into skin cancer, whereas freckles can’t. Any mole that is larger than a pencil eraser should be checked out for cancer.

    Freckles (Ephelides and Solar Lentigines) from Cleveland Clinic

  • What percentage of conservation money comes from hunters?

    Annually, the 10 largest non-profit conservation organizations provide $2.5 billion to habitat and wildlife conservation – 12.3% of this comes from hunters while 87.7% is from the non-hunting public. There is a lot of debate about how to best fund conservation. Some people think that the best way to do it is through hunting licenses and fees, while others think that the money should come from taxes. Which is the right way to go?

    Where does conservation money come from?

    One of the main ways to promote conservation is to provide financial assistance to people who want to protect resources. This is called conservation funding. There are many different types of conservation funding, and each one has its own specific goals. The most common way is through taxation. Taxation provides a financial incentive for people to conserve resources, and it helps governments raise the money needed to support conservation initiatives.

    Some types of conservation funding include donations from individuals, foundations, and government agencies. Other forms of conservation funding include grants from private companies, donations from auction houses, and charging fees for using protected areas.

    How much conservation money comes from the sale of fishing and hunting licenses?

    Selling fishing and hunting licenses is one way that the government funds conservation. Approximately $1 billion a year nationally is collected by the government, of which 100% goes directly to conservation and restoration. This means that it is a private-sector initiative that helps to conserve resources for future generations.

    Conservation funding is vital to the continuation of many important environmental programs. The money is used to help protect both the environment and the economy. It helps to preserve natural resources and keep our economy healthy. The conservation money also helps to fund things like land conservation, wildlife research, and water cleanup. Furthermore, it helps to create jobs in the hunting and fishing industries.

    Where in Africa is trophy hunting the sole source of conservation funding?

    Trophy hunting is the main source of conservation funding in South Africa. It is responsible for bringing down the populations of many large animals, including lions, elephants, and gorillas. This activity is considered to be a form of wildlife tourism. However, trophy hunting has been a controversial practice that many people believe should be stopped. It can be very dangerous for both the hunters and the animals they’re trying to kill. It’s also been linked with human rights abuses, including the trafficking and exploitation of wildlife.

    While some people may find this practice ethically questionable, it’s important to remember that trophy hunting provides valuable income for many African communities.

    How does the trophy hunting conservation money help?

    Trophy hunting is a big business, and it’s one that benefits conservation in many ways. Conservation money helps fund research into new ways to manage animal populations, which helps keep those populations healthy and balanced. It also helps pay for the management of wildlife areas, which helps keep those areas open for hunting. Finally, it pays for the training of game wardens and conservation officers, who are responsible for enforcing wildlife laws and protecting wildlife resources.

    Trophy hunting is a popular activity that many people enjoy. However, it has come under fire in recent years because of the damage that it can do to wildlife populations.

    What percent of conservation funding goes to freshwater conservation?

    It’s estimated that only 2 – 3% of conservation funding goes towards freshwater conservation. This is despite the fact that freshwater ecosystems are home to 40% of all known fish species and provide vital services to humans, including drinking water, food, and clean energy. The study found that the majority of conservation funding goes towards terrestrial ecosystems, with very little going towards marine or freshwater ecosystems.

    How much is spent globally on conservation funding?

    In 2017, 81 countries have domestically spent around 67.8 billion USD collectively on conservation and the sustainable use of biodiversity. The global conservation community has been working to protect the environment for years.

    The majority of this money goes to protecting forests, species, and natural resources. However, the amount of money that is spent on conservation is increasing each year because of the global concern for climate change. This money is used to fund organizations that work to protect these areas. Conservation funding is important because it helps to protect our environment and ecosystems.

    In the past, this work was funded by taxpayers through charitable donations. However, in recent years, this has become more difficult as governments have been struggling to maintain funding levels. As a result, conservation groups are now turning to other sources of funding. One of the most common sources of conservation funding is philanthropy. This is money donated by individuals or organizations who want to help protect the environment. Another major source of funding grants from government agencies. Finally, private companies also contribute to conservation efforts through donations and investment.

  • What percentage of coffee is water?

    A cup of coffee is 98% water. Thus, if you want a great cup of coffee, the water you use to make coffee must taste clean, fresh, and with no impurities. The wide spectrum of flavors in coffee is effectively extracted using water that has been boiled to slightly below boiling (90° to 96° C). Any cooler than this and the water can’t effectively do the job. Hotter than this, and the water can burn the coffee causing the taste to become less palatable.

    Who invented coffee?

    Coffee was first cultivated in the ancient coffee woods of the Ethiopian plateau, and it is now farmed all over the world. There, a goat herder named Kaldi who lived in the ninth century is credited with discovering the benefits of these beans after observing how his goats changed after consuming berries from a certain bush: they got so energized that they wouldn’t sleep at night. The local monastery’s abbot was informed of Kaldi’s discoveries and drank a beverage concocted from the berries. He observed that it also kept him alert throughout the lengthy evening prayers. The revitalizing berries became known after the abbot informed the other monks at the monastery about his discovery.

    The word moved east and coffee soon reached the Arabian peninsula. It began a journey that would bring the popularity of these beans across the globe.

    How much caffeine is in a cup of coffee?

    A typical cup of coffee has approximately 95 milligrams of caffeine. This quantity might range from zero to more than 500 mg depending on the type of coffee drink.

    The factors that affect caffeine content are:

    • Type of coffee beans: There are many kinds of coffee beans available, which may naturally contain different amounts of caffeine.
    • Roasting: Lighter roasts result in more caffeine than darker roasts, although the darker roasts can definitely have a deeper flavor.
    • Type of coffee: Any variety of coffee, including routinely brewed coffee, espresso, instant coffee, and decaf coffee, can contain varying amounts of caffeine.
    • Serving size: The size of “one cup of coffee” can range anywhere from 30–700 ml (1–24 oz), which greatly affects the total caffeine content.

    What is decaf coffee?

    Decaffeinated coffee is just the same as regular coffee, but has a majority of its caffeine removed. It still contains a very small amount of caffeine (around 3% of what it had to begin with) since 100% of caffeine can never really be removed completely.

    Green, unroasted beans are used to make decaf coffee. Water alone, water and solvents (most frequently methylene chloride or ethyl acetate), or water and “supercritical carbon dioxide” are used to warm and soak the hard beans in order to break down and remove the caffeine.

    All of the aforementioned methods are generally safe. Once 97% of the caffeine is removed, the beans are washed, steamed, and roasted at temperatures that can evaporate all the liquids used in decaffeination.

    What are the different types of coffee?

    There are different types of coffee drinks that people consume. Here are just five of them to familiarize yourself with some of the popular types of coffee:

    Americano

    Americano is a popular breakfast drink and was thought to have originated during World War II. Soldiers would put water to their coffee to extend their rations further. The water dilutes the espresso while still maintaining a high level of caffeine to their liking.

    • Ratio: 1 shot of espresso + 3 oz. of hot water
    • Cup: 5-6 oz. Glass Coffee Mug

    Flat White

    A flat white originated from New Zealand and Australia. It is very similar to a cappuccino without the foam layer and chocolate powder. To maintain the creaminess of the drink, steamed milk is added from the bottom of the jug.

    • Ratio: 1 shot of espresso + 4 oz. of steamed milk
    • Cup: 6 oz. Glass Tumbler

    Espresso

    The espresso, also called short black, is about 1 oz of highly concentrated coffee. It looks very simple to make but can be difficult to master.

    • Ratio: 1 shot of espresso
    • Cup: 2-4 oz. Espresso Cup

    Macchiato

    The word “macchiato” means “to mark or stain”. The name refers to the imprint that heated milk makes as it is dashed into the espresso on the drink’s surface. Depending on the tastes of the consumer, flavoring syrups are frequently added to the beverage.

    • Ratio: 1 shot of espresso + 1 to 2 teaspoons of steamed milk
    • Cup: 3 oz. Glass Espresso Cup

    Cappuccino

    This is a creamy coffee drink that is usually consumed at breakfast time in Italy and is loved in the US as well. It is usually associated with feelings of indulgence and comfort because of its thick foam layer and flavorings that can be added to elevate the flavor of the drink.

    • Ratio: 1-2 shots of espresso + 2 oz. of steamed milk + 2 oz. of foamed milk + a sprinkling of chocolate powder (optional)
    • Cup: 6-8 oz. Cappuccino Mug

    How much coffee is too much?

    Caffeine is not actually safe for everyone. Some people should avoid caffeine, including:

    • Children
    • People taking medications for their anxiety
      Pregnant or breastfeeding women
    • People suffering from heart disease or high blood pressure

    Otherwise, caffeine is safe in moderation. Here are some boundaries that should be noted:

    • Caffeine intake for healthy persons shouldn’t exceed 400 mg per day. That is equivalent to roughly 10 cans of cola or four 8-ounce cups of brewed coffee.
    • Teenagers should limit their daily caffeine intake to less than 100 mg (which equates to one 8-ounce cup of coffee or about two cans of cola).

    How long does coffee stay in your system?

    Caffeine has an almost immediate effect on the body, kicking in within 15 minutes of consumption. For most people, the blood level of caffeine peaks around an hour later and remains high for many hours. 50% of the caffeine you drink stays in your system for six hours! Caffeine removal from your bloodstream can take up to 10 hours.

    Why does coffee make you poop?

    Coffee appears to also trigger the release of the hormone gastrin, which allows for the production of stomach acid. Gastric acid helps break down food and might cause colonic activity. In 1986, researchers found that drinking caffeinated or non-caffeinated coffee affects gastrin levels quickly and dramatically. A 2009 study discovered that Drinking coffee significantly speeds up digestion.

    Why does coffee make me sleepy?

    Caffeine counteracts the effects of adenosine, which is why you feel so alert after drinking coffee. However, once its effects wear off, your body may begin experiencing an accumulation of adenosine, which is why coffee may cause you to feel tired and sleepy.

    Adenosine is a molecule that’s naturally produced by the body and triggers the feeling of sleepiness. By consuming coffee, your body absorbs the caffeine in it, and when this caffeine reaches your brain, it stays with your adenosine receptors.

    Why does my pee smell like coffee?

    Over 1,000 chemical components make up coffee and are responsible for its flavor, fragrance, and appearance. The main cause of coffee’s aroma is antioxidants known as polyphenols.

    The digestive system absorbs and uses the coffee’s polyphenols, which are then degraded and eliminated in the urine. Therefore, a person who drinks a lot of coffee may have a high level of polyphenols and other coffee chemicals in their urine. This will give out a coffee-like odor.

    Additionally, caffeine speeds up the rate at which you urinate and can dehydrate you. Dehydration causes a person’s urine to be more concentrated, which means it contains less water and more waste than usual.

    Why is coffee called joe?

    A blanket order prohibiting alcohol on naval warships was reportedly issued by Secretary Josephus Daniels. From then on, the strongest drink of any kind permitted on naval ships has been coffee. The presumably unhappy and sober sailors were disappointed with the changes, so they started to call coffee a “Joe” out of spite.

    When is National Coffee Day?

    National Coffee Day is on September 29, for the US and Canada.

  • What percentage of blue light should be blocked?

    There is a lot of debate over what percentage of blue light should be blocked to avoid harmful effects on the body. Some scientists believe that up to 90% of blue light should be blocked to avoid any negative health effects. Others say that up to 75% of blue light should be blocked. The final decision comes down to individual preferences and how cautious you wish to be.

    What is blue light?

    Blue light is a type of color in the visible light spectrum that can be seen by human eyes. It is a short wavelength, which means it releases higher amounts of energy.

    Blue light is prevalent everywhere in our world. The sun used to be the only source of blue light but now we have easier access to it by way of digital screens found on modern technologies (like TVs, smartphones, computers, laptops, tablets, and gaming systems), electronic devices, LED, and fluorescent lighting.

    Blue light wavelengths are everywhere and they surround us. In fact, they are the reason why the sky appears blue. The short blue wavelengths collide with air molecules, which results in the blue light scattering and making our eyes process the sky as blue. Blue light is also a natural resource that helps regulate our body clocks (sleep and wake cycles), also known as our circadian rhythm. Blue light can also help boost our alertness, elevate our moods, heighten our reaction times, and increase our overall feeling of well-being. But too much blue light or exposure to blue light after dark may have negative effects on one’s health.

    What are blue light glasses?

    Blue-light blocking glasses have filters in their lenses that stop or absorb blue light, and in some cases UV light, from getting through. That means using these glasses when looking at a screen, especially after dark, can help reduce exposure to blue light waves that otherwise can keep our mind and body awake. Most glasses are meant to be worn during the day while working in front of a computer, and at night to prevent the blue light from screens from keeping us awake.

    These are the best shops to buy blue light blocking glasses in 2022:

    • Felix Gray
    • Warby Parker
    • GlassesUSA.com
    • MVMT
    • Eyekepper
    • EyeBuyDirect
    • Cyxus
    • Quay
    • Zenni
    • The Book Club
    • Tomahawk Shades
    • Vincero

    Glasses with red- or orange-tinted lenses block a wider spectrum or range and a larger percentage of blue light. However, they can also distort the colors shown on your computer screen. Clear or light yellow-tinted glasses are made to target a narrower range of high-energy blue light that is commonly emitted from artificial sources.

    Why is blue light bad for your eyes?

    Blue light is bad for your eyes because it emits a wavelength that can damage the retina. If you’re looking at something blue light-emitting, for an extended period of time, your eyes may start to suffer from retinal damage. This can lead to vision problems and even blindness. Blue light also negatively affects sleep if you’re exposed to it near your bedtime.

    How does blue light affect sleep?

    Circadian rhythms are finely-tuned, 24-hour cycles that make our bodies aware of when to carry out essential functions. Light is the most significant factor in organizing circadian rhythms and, throughout human history, these rhythms were closely aligned with sunrise and sunset.

    With the rise of artificial light and electronic use, people are being exposed to surging amounts of light before bedtime. All kinds of visible light can affect circadian rhythms, but blue light has the most impact,

    We receive most of our exposure to blue light from the sun. Blue light controls parts of the brain that make us feel alert, elevating our body temperature and heart rate. During the day, blue light can refine performance and attention, tuning our circadian rhythm and preparing us for a better night’s sleep after the sun sets.

    Furthermore, properly-timed exposure to blue light can treat a number of sleep disorders. Circadian rhythm disorders happen when a person’s circadian rhythms aren’t aligned with their environment. Light therapy, blue light, in particular, can help rearrange the body’s circadian rhythms and improve sleep.

    Blue light suppresses the body’s production of melatonin, a hormone that makes us feel sleepy. While this might be advantageous during the day, it is disruptive when we are attempting to sleep at night. Our brain may believe that it is still daytime if we are exposed to blue light at night. This can throw off our circadian cycles and keep us awake rather than sleepy.

    Chronic circadian rhythm disruption can also have harmful effects on health, including metabolic diseases and mental health issues like depression. It’s crucial to understand the sources of blue light and ways to lower the dangers given the serious health effects linked to exposure to it after dark.

    One of the ways that technological items might disrupt sleep is by emitting blue light. The best strategy would be to turn off alerts before going to bed and to avoid bringing light-emitting devices into your bedroom. Melatonin synthesis is aided by darkness; it is inhibited by blue light.

    What are the health benefits of blue light?

    Exposure to blue light has several important health benefits. It can:

    • Helps you stay alert – A 2018 study has revealed that exposure to blue light can increase your reaction time and stimulate alertness even when you’re not at your peak performance time of day.
    • Boosts memory and cognitive function – Participants in a 2017 study were subjected to a 30-minute blue light “washout” period and have demonstrated to perform better on verbal memory and memory consolidation tasks afterward. Meanwhile, study participants who had an amber light “washout” didn’t perform as well.
    • Potentially improve seasonal depression – Blue light therapy is now one of the go-to treatments to cure seasonal depression. Researchers have found that it’s also an efficient treatment even for depression that isn’t seasonal, particularly when combined with antidepressant medications.
    • Helps with some skin conditions – A 2015 review has shown that blue light eliminates acne-causing bacteria and lowers inflammation in acne breakouts. In some cases, actinic keratosis and plaque psoriasis have both been improved by treatment with blue light. A 2018 study also showed that blue light therapy was effective in treating basal cell carcinoma tumors.

    What does blue light in a fish tank do?

    In a fish aquarium, blue LED lighting produces a relaxing atmosphere. Blue light, according to many fish aficionados, is important for the change from day to night. As blue light resembles the moonlight, you can use the light in the evenings to entice less observant fish to emerge from their hiding places.

    Blue LED lighting, also called moonlight blue bulbs, also supports your fish tank plants and helps your nocturnal fish to feed. However, it’s important to remember that this subtle light should be switched off at night so that your fish can sleep peacefully.

    How does blue light whiten teeth?

    The procedure involves the dentist applying a whitening gel to your teeth. Then, they will use a blue LED light, which is important to activate the hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide whitening gel. This method also helps break apart the gel faster. The resulting chemical reaction from this lifts stains off your teeth and whitens them.