Author: Creative Programs and Systems - page 29

Landmark Lawsuit Could Force Google to Divest Ads

A lawsuit filed by the United States Justice Department targets Alphabet’s Google and its monopoly in the advertising space. If the case succeeds, rivals of Google Ads, such as Apple, Meta, Microsoft, and Amazon could find an advantage. However, advertisers would have an uncertain future in this scenario.

The Justice Department demanded in the complaint that Google divest its Ad Manager, a suite of tools that allows websites to distribute ads and find customers based on their interests, gender, location, and more.

Apple has been swiftly increasing its emerging advertising sector, endorsing its privacy features, and could be a budding contender if Google Ads loses its stronghold. Since Apple’s data is compiled through phone ownership, its Safari web browser, and the dispersal of applications through its app store, it will have the ability to swiftly diversify its focus into the ad realm.

If the lawsuit filed by the Justice Department succeeds, advertisers and publishers will both experience more leverage with multiple options and an entirely new roster of players. With that comes more competition, as the space will open up to many others.

Google’s advertising competitors are constantly developing new products for publishers (news websites) and advertisers buying those ads. If Google is forced to divest, competitors such as Microsoft’s Xandr will have an edge, as they will continue to work with both sides.

The gains will also come financially for publishers, as they will have more options, inevitably driving down the overall cost in the sector. As more competition emerges, Google Ads will predictably become less effective.

This is not the first time the government has filed lawsuits against dominant companies in an effort to break up monopolies. In 1974, a lawsuit broke up AT&T, which resulted in many advancements and innovations in the telephone industry. In 1998, the Justice Department filed a suit against Microsoft aimed at reining in the company by prohibiting them from extending its dominant operating system to the internet browser. Ironically, the Justice Department and Microsoft settlement paved the way for other internet innovators such as Google.

_______________________________

Founded in 1994, Creative Programs and Systems provides professional results for all computer needs. We design, create, and code an array of custom software programs and websites; offer top-notch digital marketing services including enhanced Search Engine Optimization (SEO) and paid advertising; repair and provide support for computers of both residential and professional nature; build custom systems and servers, and offer secure data backups. Need assistance or want to learn more? Call us at 810-224-5252 or e-mail info@cpsmi.com.

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/ 

Vehicle Dealer Bonds Increased

Since January 23, 2023, the Michigan Uniform Vehicle Dealer Surety Bonds (also known as Michigan auto dealer bonds or Michigan motor vehicle dealer bonds) has increased from $10,000 to $25,000. 

Mandated by Michigan Compiled Laws 257.248, the surety bond requirement has yet to be distributed to all motor vehicle dealers. Any individuals or business entities who sell or deal in five or more motor vehicles within a 12-month period are subject to the code. This ensures the public will receive compensation for any damages if the auto dealer is not in compliance with the dealer licensing law.

Regulated by the Michigan Secretary of State, the Michigan legislature enacted the license to guarantee dealers engage in ethical business practices such as remitting payment for taxes and fees. Specific licenses are required for auto dealers by the State of Michigan, depending on the nature of the business. Dealers will need to acquire a license for each type of business they are active in. 

The different types of Michigan Dealer Licenses are:

  • Class A: New Vehicle Dealer
  • Class B: Used Vehicle Dealer
  • Class C: Used Vehicle Parts Dealer*
  • Class D: Broker
  • Class E: Distressed Vehicle Transporter*
  • Class F: Vehicle Scrap Metal Processor*
  • Class G: Vehicle Salvage Pool*
  • Class H: Foreign Salvage Vehicle Dealer
  • Class R: Automotive Recycler*
  • Class W: Wholesaler*

*It is important to note that classes C, E, F, G, R, and W are exempt from the surety bond requirement. 

The Michigan Department of State requires that existing bonds be increased with a rider amendment document provided at the next renewal. The deadline for filing paperwork to increase the Michigan auto dealer amount is December 31, 2023. Any dealers who do not file the required documents before the deadline will potentially have their licenses canceled.

All existing bonds are subject to the increase at the next renewal term, so dealers who have active bonds already on file with the state of Michigan can expect the bond amount to increase by inflated premiums on their next renewal term. Any newly paid renewal invoices should be filed with the state of Michigan.

_________________________

At Construction Bonding Specialists, we work with new and experienced contractors to find the most satisfactory bond solutions. As a distinct surety-bond-only agency with decades of bonding experience, we work to discover surety solutions for all types of cases ranging from ordinary to challenging. Call us at 248-349-6227 to learn more.

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/ 

Achieving Your Backyard Vision

The pool industry is forever evolving, so why isn’t your dated pool? Many homeowners are adding or removing pools, but a large number of pool owners simply want a pool “facelift.” Often, homeowners who remove pools do not wish to remove them completely; rather, they need to do a remodel for one reason or another.

A growing number of pools are removed for a remodel and added again with a new tile design, layout, shape, etc. Along with the pool renovation usually comes a backyard redesign. If a pool is shining from a fresh, new look, the rest of the backyard shouldn’t be dull and dreary. 

If you are thinking about adding a gas fire pit next to your pool, a state-of-the-art BBQ station, TV, etc., the ideal time to do that is while your pool is being redesigned. 

Creating an inviting and modern space is possible with the right vision. Pools are timeless, and while most tile can stand up to the test of time, it isn’t always aesthetically pleasing when it comes to modern changes and updates throughout the backyard/home. 

Many swimming pools built in the 1960s and ‘70s were based on templates. In the 1980s, custom pool design became more popular. What was once constricted by templates was now open to possibilities, and freedom of expression really blossomed during this time. 

Now, many older pools that are cracking or leaking need repair, and the more recent pools might be fine physically but are not aesthetically pleasing as they once used to be. 

Re-plastering, tiling, coping, or caulking pools can create an astounding result, but why stop there? Examine your backyard and hire a landscape designer to help make your vision real. Find like-minded professionals with the aptitude for building precisely what you are looking for.

If you are looking for a pool redesign, look no further than Pound Pool Plastering. We have the professional wherewithal to transform your dreary pool into a sparkling vessel. 

Pound Pool Plastering services residential and commercial pools in applying a wide variety of pool plaster finishes and complete renovations. We offer Diamond Brite, Sunstone, Hydrazzo, and Marcite – and a great selection of tile choices and coping stones. Owner Dale Pound personally oversees each pool project to ensure the highest quality is delivered. Call or e-mail us for a free estimate. 

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/ 

Dry Weather, Dry Eyes

Diagnosing Dry Eyes

Dry eyes can plague nearly every person at some point in their lives. Dry, dehydrated eyes can be even more apparent in the winter months when there is less humidity. Dry eyes can cause discomfort, a sensation of having something in your eyes, blurred vision, eye fatigue, sensitivity to light, trouble in wearing contact lenses, difficulty with nighttime driving, and conversely, can make your eyes watery.

There are various tests used to determine the cause of dry eyes, including:

  • Comprehensive eye exam – overall health and history can help diagnose the cause.
  • Disease markers – to look for specific eye diseases such as decreased lactoferrin.
  • Schirmer tear or phenol red thread test – measures tear production.
  • Quality of tears test – dyed eye drops help determine the surface condition of your eyes.
  • Tear osmolarity test – measures the composition of particles and water in your eyes.

Treatment for Dry Eyes

Treatment for dry eyes can include implementing eye drops, sometimes called artificial tears. Treatments can reverse or manage dry eyes by improving tear makeup or function depending on the overall test results.

Sometimes, an underlying health condition can remediate the signs and symptoms of dry eyes, such as using a specific medication that causes dry eyes as a side effect.

Various treatments for dry eyes include: 

  • Medicine to increase oil gland production.
  • Eye drops to control cornea inflammation. 
  • Artificial eye inserts that slowly dissolve and mimic tears
  • Prescriptions (pills, gels, eye drops) to increase tear production. 
  • Autologous blood serum drops.
  • Nasal spray used explicitly for dry eyes.

If the above treatments do not help with dry eyes, a few medical interventions can help: 

  • Plugging the tear ducts with tiny silicone (punctal) plugs to prevent tear loss. 
  • Using special scleral contact lenses that protect the eye surface and trap moisture.
  • Unblocking oil glands by using warm compresses. 
  • Using hypochlorous acid spray to help keep eye pH normal and remove bacteria causing dry eye.

Do you suffer from dry eyes and need a solution ASAP? You’ve come to the right place; we can help determine the best treatment based on your symptoms. Contact us today!

_____________________

Rohr Eye & Laser Center is now Zen Eye Institute! We offer the most advanced technology available to provide personalized and extraordinary care to our patients. Whether your goal is to maintain or improve your natural vision, we are here to help you. Call us at 877-579-0202 to learn more.

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/

Is Love All You Need?

Love and a sense of belonging are part of Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs. Simply put, love is a basic human necessity. As social creatures, love binds human beings and helps give life purpose. 

The aspects of love can transcend our understanding, but many report that love gives them physical and emotional feelings. Humans possess an innate ability to nurture themselves and others, whether it’s another human, a pet, or an inanimate object such as a garden. 

Generally, humans yearn for a sense of belonging within a community and seek lifetime partners. But love can go beyond romantic relationships. Unconditional love for family members and friends can be viewed as an act of kindness or a way of validating those in susceptible situations.

In the ancient Greek language, there existed five forms of love: familial love, friendly or platonic love, romantic love, guest love, and divine love. There is love as long as there is kindness, compassion, and affection.

Overall, love can bring positivity and a sense of comfort, but love has dark sides that cause more harm than good. Unrequited love, empty love, infatuated love, compassionate love, self-love, and courtly love are all terms identified by modern authors to describe dark love. 

These forms of love can cause isolation, mistrust and sometimes lead to homicide or suicide. Many serial killers have a family history full of dysfunction and an inability to receive love due to how they were raised. Narcissists are classically known to be too deep in self-love. 

In total, love is profound. It’s no joke. It can save or destroy someone. However, despite the positives and negatives, love is a basic human need. Can we live without it? Perhaps we could, but it’s likely that we wouldn’t have much success without it.

Feelings of love can release feel-good neurotransmitters in the brain that boost our mood. It can raise our heart rate and increase oxytocin production and norepinephrine. Some say these feelings are necessary for survival, but at the end of the day, it’s all relative. 

Love is as essential as a well-balanced diet. It’s the opposite of loneliness and helps fight depression and other diseases throughout the body. Having a balanced sense of love in one aspect or another can keep us motivated and determined to continue through life. 

___________________________

Wolf Survival Gear is a hub for your prepping and survival needs. We are your trusted resource for concerned families, avid hunters, or serious preppers. Make us your one-stop-shop and prepare now, before you need it later. 

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/ 

Electric Vehicle Tax Credits

Sales of electric (and hybrid) vehicles are skyrocketing, leaving many new and prospective customers questioning which EVs qualify for the federal tax credit. The tax credit amount varies by household due to several factors, including whether the vehicle was manufactured in the United States, your income tax, and more. 

The IRS states, “You may qualify for a credit up to $7,500 under Internal Revenue Code Section 30D if you buy a new, qualified, plug-in EV or fuel cell electric vehicle (FCV).” The inflation Reduction Act of 2022 changed the rules for this credit for vehicles purchased between 2023 and 2032.

The federal tax credit is enticing, but it’s important to understand that you may not qualify for the full amount. For example, if you purchased a qualifying vehicle but owe $3,500 in income tax for the year, you will receive this as your federal tax credit. However, if you owe $10,000 in federal income tax for the year, you will qualify for $7,500. Unused portions are not available for refunds or applicable for next year’s taxes.

To qualify for the new federal tax credits in the Inflation Reduction Act, electric vehicles must be assembled in North America, must have at least 40 percent of its critical battery minerals and 50 percent of its battery components originating from the United States or countries with a free trade agreement with the United States. EVs must also have a battery size of at least seven kWh and a gross vehicle weight of less than 14,000 pounds.

For vehicles priced below $25,000, a new federal tax credit of $4,000 has been implemented. For EVs with an MSRP below $55,000, the revised credit applies and also includes zero-emission vans, SUVs, and trucks with MSRPs up to $80,000. Individuals reporting adjusted gross incomes of $150,000 or less, $225,000 for heads of households, or $300,000 joint filers will qualify for the EV tax credit. The tax credit also applies to plug-in hybrid EVs (PHEVs) as long as they meet the requirements above.

Here is a list of vehicles that qualify for the full tax credit in 2022 – 2023:

EVs

–    Cadillac Lyriq

–    Chevrolet Bolt EUV and EV

–    Ford F-150 Lightning, Mustang Mach-E, and E-Transit

–    Nissan Leaf SV, S Plus, SL Plus, S, and SV Plus

–    Rivian R1T and R1S

–    Tesla Model 3 RWD/Long Range and Model Y AWD/Long Range/Performance

–    Volkswagen ID.4, ID.4 S, ID.4 Pro, and ID.4 Pro S

PHEVs

–    Audi Q5 TFSI e Quattro

–    BMW 330 e and X5 xDrive45e

    Chrysler Pacifica Plug-In Hybrid

–    Ford Escape Plug-In Hybrid

–    Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe and Wrangler 4xe

–    Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring and Corsair Grand Touring

–    Volvo S60 Recharge/Extended Range and S60 T8 Recharge Extended Range

State Electric Company is a leader in the electrification of the nation. Our highly educated and experienced team of professionals uses industry-leading software technology and has partnered with manufacturers to deliver affordable solutions for all your electrical needs. State Electric Co. is also an exclusive distributor for Enel X JuiceBox EV chargers for residential and commercial use. We are fully licensed, insured, and bonded to install charging stations for homes, offices, hotels, and more. With our extensive knowledge of renewable energy, our team provides customers – large or small – with efficient electrical solutions. Contact us today to learn how we can safely and affordably meet your energy needs. 

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/ 

Short Run Book Printing Benefits

In the past, books were produced only in large quantities before digital printing because time and expense for smaller batches were not economical. Digital printing makes short runs easy and affordable without sacrificing quality. Paper stocks have a high-quality finish and a fantastic overall look. Moreover, they provide flexible options for printers who want to offer this product to customers. Some other benefits of digital print, short-run books include: 

Affordability
Smaller print runs are much more affordable than large runs, requiring a lesser investment for both printer and client. 

Reduced Storage Space
Books generally require a great deal of storage space, but with short-run printed books, they take up less surface area than the alternative. 

Hardcover Upgrade
Short runs can more easily be upgraded to hardcover since they have a lower page count and the overall cost of printing is lower than the alternative. 

Less Waste
With short runs, companies can order a smaller number of books, which helps to reduce the chances of producing unnecessary trash. 

Swift Production
Digital print runs require minimal setup, which lowers production time and makes the entire process quick and effortless. 

New Editions
Shorter print runs mean that minor updates can be printed every time a small run is ordered, which keeps the content accurate.

Are you looking to print a book in small quantities? Look no further than Econo Print! Our local experts can assist you today. 

At Econo Print, we strive to deliver the highest-quality printed products possible. We produce top-rated goods in a timely fashion at a competitive price. Listening to our clients and helping them achieve their business goals is our top priority. We are proud of the strong roots we’ve built in the community and pride ourselves on using cutting-edge technology. Our products, commitment to service, and level of expertise exceed our clients’ expectations. Contact us today to learn how we can help launch your business to the next level.

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/

Novel 4D Printing Emerges for Breast Cancer Treatment

Breast cancer is the second most common cancer worldwide, affecting approximately 7.8 million women in the past seven years. Current 3D breast cancer treatment focuses on treatment, tissue regeneration, and physical recovery. From prosthetics to drug-loaded implants, challenges persist. With a novel 4D technology, complexity and customization combine to improve breast cancer management. 

Generally, 3D treatments are well-established due to many advantages, such as rapid prototyping, ease of accessibility, structural control, and cost-effectiveness. It also requires low energy, so from an environmental perspective, 3D treatments are eco-friendly, reduce waste production, and do not involve chemicals. There are some hurdles when it comes to 3D treatments, however. Some of these include build size, post-processing, and lack of regulation. 

When it comes to revolutionizing the standard treatment for breast cancer, 3D printing has shown a significant impact when it comes to diagnosis, treatment, and aesthetic outcomes. 

To help surgeons plan and make decisions, breast and tumor prototypes are used for diagnostic tasks, surgery training, preoperative planning, treatment optimization, and drug screening. These prosthetic models mimic patient anatomy. The 3D models, from a practical perspective, were created to localize tumors and provide physical models for resection guidance. 

With 4D treatments, the advantages and disadvantages of 3D technology are present, but 4D can offer a higher level of complexity and customization features. Combined with programmed functionalities, the dynamic abilities of 4D treatments are advantageous for breast cancer treatment. 

Some challenges of 4D treatment include material availability, technical aspects, and the design process. New materials and improved biocompatibility should be the primary focus when it comes to printability. 

RadParts, a TTG Imaging Solutions Company is the world’s largest independent distributor of OEM replacement parts. We specialize in low-cost parts for repairing linear accelerator and radiation equipment. Our mission is to provide high-quality, user-friendly, low-cost parts and support for linear accelerators and radiation equipment. Contact RadParts at 877-704-3838 to learn more.

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/

 Point-of-Care Ultrasound Advancements

Point-of-Care Ultrasound (POCUS) was recently declared by the American Academy of Family Physicians as, “The biggest advance in bedside diagnosis since the advent of the stethoscope 200 years ago.” 

Many industry professionals, such as anesthesiologists, internal medicine specialists, family practitioners, and more, already use this technology and believe it is beneficial in widespread application. Ongoing advancements in POCUS technology make it an option for radiologists as well. 

Thanks to POCUS’ ability to rule out suspended pathology at the bedside, Rami Zebian, MD, CMO with Florence Medical Center and Marion Medical Center, said, “The best care is local care. There’s a lot of talk about how to do more care locally. While you can have the best technology, a huge hospital setting, and people can travel, the best option is having options locally at the point of care and getting results or answers faster. For example, emergency medicine physicians who graduate from an emergency medicine residency nowadays have ultrasound as part of their training. If we’re concerned about bleeding, they do the fast scan to quickly identify an area of concern, and then you go after it. There are a lot of conditions where time is very important.” 

Ernesto Brauer, MD, RDMS, RDCS, ASCeXAM, FACP, FCCP, ABSM, council chair with the Point-of-Care Ultrasound Certification Academy, says, “A significant number of ultrasound studies are reported as normal studies. This will avoid the unnecessary burden on radiologists.” 

POCUS offers lower-cost imaging devices that allow organizations to scale their use, enabling high-powered image insights to be at their fingertips. Regarding health care, the impact of POCUS will continue to be substantial, as it has unlimited potential in patient diagnosis. 

Physicians use specific tools to understand the complex physiology presented by patients with complicated conditions. POCUS is now being used as an extension of a physical exam. 

Ohad Zrazi, president and CEO of Clarius Mobile Health, said, “The emergence of high-quality handheld ultrasound systems that are even more portable, affordable, and easier to use is enabling physicians from diverse specialties to use ultrasound for diagnosis and treatment, often during first visits. As more physicians become proficient with using ultrasound to diagnose simple cases at the bedside, radiologists will have more time to focus on complex cases that require high level expertise.” 

Brauer said, “So, in a nutshell, the POCUS community is using POCUS in ways that have never been used conventionally by radiologists or sonographers. We are just in the early phase of the evolution of POCUS.” 

TTG Imaging Solutions is an industry leader in delivering the best equipment performance and service reliability from CT Scanners and Linear Accelerators across all major brands and models. Call 610-524-3300 to learn more.


Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/

Igniting Fires in Snowy Areas

If you ever find yourself stranded outside in the winter, chances are, you’ll be surrounded by snow and susceptible to the darkness that forces temperatures to plummet below freezing. Is building a fire out of the question? Answer: it can be difficult, but not impossible. 

Since snow immediately melts and turns into water when heated, flames can be extinguished quickly. Also, heat – not flame – causes fuel to burn. Since cold temperatures make heat production more difficult, increasing the fuel temperature can take a while. 

The most important thing to consider when building a fire in the snow is to find the proper site. When searching for the right area to start a fire, ensure it is protected from snow accumulation, wind, and water. Clear snow from the ground before beginning. 

Next, construct a fire pit by adding a stone floor to raise the fuel above ground. Align the stones against each other and use a heat reflector to keep the warm air circulating. Trees, cliff walls, or the silver side of heat blankets are all great reflectors. Don’t forget to create a raised space for firewood, which will help keep it dry and away from the snow. 

Use kindling and fuel to start the fire, preferably with large dry, or dead pieces such as tree trunks or stumps. Locate wood you can use as the fire burns to ensure you have enough when you need it. You can try a fire accelerant to speed up the process. If you carry a bug-out bag, pack tinder in your gear to help start fires. Dryer lint is an excellent accelerant.

Once your fire is roaring, build your shelter as close as possible – avoid placing flammable or meltable items near the fire – to keep yourself warm. Rocks placed in the fire can be used as mini heaters, warming your blanket or clothing if necessary. 

Keeping yourself warm in emergencies is incredibly important – even more so in freezing temperatures that can cause frostbite, hypothermia, and more. Ensure you are prepared for the worst, so you can hope for the best. 

Do you need a fire starter for emergencies? Look no further – Wolf Survival Gear carries a variety of fire starters to suit your needs. Rain or shine, hot or cold, we’ve got you covered. 

Wolf Survival Gear is a hub for your prepping and survival needs. We are your trusted resource for concerned families, avid hunters, or serious preppers. Make us your one-stop-shop and prepare now, before you need it later. 

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/